YOUNGSTOWN -  Ohio Edison says crews are wrapping up work on a project designed to greatly shorten the length of time that homes and businesses will experience power outages.

The utility announced that more than 200,000 customers in Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, and Ashtabula counties will benefit from the installation of more than 20 new automated reclosing devices that will help limit the frequency, duration, and scope of service interruptions.

Devices that work like circuit breakers in a home that shuts off power when trouble occurs, will also automatically reenergize a power line within seconds for certain types of outages to keep power flowing.

The devices allow Ohio Edison to automatically restore service to customers rather than sending a crew to investigate, which is especially helpful in rural or hard-to-access areas. The automated technology is safer and more efficient, according to the utility.

To determine the best locations for the devices, Ohio Edison reviewed outage patterns across its service territory and identified areas that would benefit from an automated reclosing device.

The projects also include replacing 11 miles of existing power lines with thicker wire designed to withstand tree debris and severe weather elements.

New utility poles were installed, and additional power lines were placed to connect customers to an alternate circuit, allowing for more flexibility in restoring outages due to events such as storms or vehicle accidents.

The work provides a backup power feed that will help keep the lights on for customers if wires or equipment on their regular line are damaged or need to be taken out of service.

"Severe storms have the potential to cause damage to poles, wires, and substations, requiring crews to make repairs in difficult conditions," said Ed Shuttleworth, regional president of Penn Power and Ohio Edison. 

The work is on track for completion by the end of the year.