Use of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) membranes for reinforcement and structural restoration of 70kV concrete poles

The research addresses the growing challenges posed by aging grid infrastructure and the need for cost effective risk-mitigation strategies that extend asset life while maintaining operational continuity.

Many Transmission System Operators (TSOs) currently replace deteriorated concrete poles individually, or remove entire lines, especially when poles reach the end of their service life.

These replacements require power outages, disrupt grid operations, permitting and involve significant environmental and safety considerations due to heavy equipment use. With no established restoration method in place, utilities face rising costs and reliability risks. Advanced composite systems (ACS) offer a sustainable alternative by shifting the approach from replacement to structural restoration, enabling longer service life with no interruption of electricity delivery.

The study evaluates field application of ACS as a strengthening technique that leverages the high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and adaptability of composite materials.

When applied to concrete poles, ACS are expected to improve mechanical performance and slow deterioration, helping utilities maintain reliability in aging transmission systems.

The research methodology combines structural modelling and engineering analysis to assess the performance of concrete poles before and after application of ACS. Preliminary results show significant improvements in strength, and overall resilience, demonstrating the potential of ACS to extend the lifespan of concrete poles. These findings support the technical viability of composite reinforcement as a long-term grid hardening solution.

Field application adds practical insight for installation procedures, access and workability considerations, and operational constraints within active transmission lines. These real-world observations highlight both the advantages and practical challenges associated with deploying

ACS. Understanding these factors is essential for integrating these systems into standard maintenance practices. The durability and long-term performance of ACS investigated in this study have been evaluated through separate research projects and extensive accelerated aging tests [1].

The paper also includes a financial assessment comparing the costs of complete concrete pole replacement with those of ACS strengthening. The analysis considers how extending pole service life influences capital investment planning and demonstrates that ACS can reduce longterm expenditures while minimizing operational disruptions. This economic perspective provides decision-makers with a strong justification for integrating restoration-focused strategies into asset management practices.

The study concludes with a synthesis of key lessons learned across modelling, field deployment, and cost analysis. It identifies key areas where ACS offer immediate value, as well as opportunities for continued research to optimize materials, installation techniques, and longterm performance monitoring. The results establish a foundation for broader adoption of composite restoration technologies across the energy sector.

By integrating technical, practical, and financial evaluation, this paper demonstrates that advanced composite systems are a promising and sustainable solution for extending the life of aging concrete transmission infrastructure and improving long-term resilience of the electric grid.