Trees and vegetation in general can have an impact on power delivery. Power lines in particular can get caught up in trees and this could lead to power disruptions. Efforts have been made over the years to prevent this. There are companies that are dedicated to pruning trees and in some cases taking them down to ensure efficient power delivery.

1- Disruptions from Direct Contact

Overgrown trees around power lines can lead to power disruptions. This usually happens when the trees come in contact with power lines. If this is not corrected it could be a potential hazard to people around the power lines. The tree’s branches could cause the power lines to snap and people around could get electrocuted. Also, when the trees are in contact with power lines, animals can climb on the power lines and cause power disruptions. This can happen due to the electrocution of the animals or snapping of the lines due to damage from these animals. Trimming of trees helps prevent this while also keeping these animals safe.

2- Short Circuits

Electricity can arc, or jump, from a power line to a nearby conductor such as a tree. When this happens, a short circuit can occur causing power disruptions. It is therefore important to keep trees around power lines short in order to avoid this. Also, fallen branches may cause power disruptions when they hit power lines. Fallen branches can cause a short circuit due to negative and live wires connecting. When this happens it could lead to fires and even death by electrocution to persons close to the power lines. Taking a proactive approach reduces the chances of fallen branches hitting the power lines. This helps keep people safe while also maintaining a constant supply of electricity.

3- Storms

When storms occur there is a high likelihood of power outages. Storms are disruptive in nature and can cause damage to power lines. This is especially true where there are lots of trees and vegetation. During a storm branches might get thrown around and trees might also fall on the power lines. When this happens, there could be power outages. Trimming trees around power lines can help prevent this. Also, trees that are too close to the power lines can get cut down. Doing this will prevent damage to the power lines during a storm. Trimming trees also makes it easier for power personnel to access power lines after storms in case they need to do any repairs. A lot of vegetation and tree coverage can make it harder for personnel to access these areas. This will translate to longer power outage downtimes.

Trimming trees around power lines is important. Doing so will help reduce power outages caused by tree damage and in case this happens, power personnel can easily access areas that need repair. This said it is important to have professionals do the trimming to avoid damage or injury as a result of electrocution. Be sure to get in touch with the relevant authority if you notice vegetation that’s too close to power lines and have them sort it out.