Big changes are on the horizon for Princeton’s power grid, as local utility leaders announce a wave of major upgrades designed to boost reliability.
As previously reported, the Princeton Electric Plant Board received a $1.7 million Grid Resiliency Grant in June 2025 from the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, with funding provided by the United States Department of Energy.
At last week’s Chamber Caldwell Connect meeting, General Manager Chris Burton explained the grant was awarded due to damage the utility suffered during the December 10, 2021, tornado.
According to Burton, the funds will be used to replace around 60 wooden poles with steel poles, helping to ensure reliable electric service for the community.
click to download audioIn addition, Burton said they will upgrade the electrical wires—known as reconductoring—from Trice Hughes to East Market Street.
click to download audioHe noted that after issuing a Request for Proposal and receiving quotes, the utility has secured a contract for the new poles. Burton mentioned it will take about 26 weeks for the poles to arrive, so at best, it will be this fall before they start the project.
Burton also announced plans to install brand new meters across the entire electric system.
click to download audioHe added that these improvements will help the Princeton Electric Plant Board “get up to speed” with larger utilities, but emphasized that the upgrades would not have been possible without the grant funding.
Burton said that getting a grant for the local utility was his main goal when he became general manager, and he asks the community for patience when crews begin replacing the utility poles.
click to download audioHe encouraged anyone with questions to contact him at the Princeton Electric Plant Board, assuring the community that he is there to help and will do his best to provide answers.
