Frisian Households Face Months Without Full Power as High-Voltage Mast Repair Commences
Franeker, Netherlands – Repairs to a damaged high-voltage mast in Franeker will extend for months, energy company Tennet has announced, following a collision with a ship last week. The incident left approximately 25,000 frisian households without power for hours and necessitates the full replacement of one mast alongside extensive repairs to others and the associated power lines.
The disruption underscores the vulnerability of critical energy infrastructure and the potential for widespread outages due to unforeseen incidents.While temporary power has been restored, full restoration hinges on the complex and lengthy repair process. Tennet’s assessment, completed in recent days, revealed the extent of the damage following the August 25th collision, prompting the multi-month timeline.Dismantling of the damaged mast is slated to begin later this week or early next.
On August 25th, a ship struck the high-voltage cables, damaging both the mast and two cables. Initially, the impact rendered the mast unstable, triggering an evacuation of the surrounding area. Emergency crews successfully stabilized the structure within a day using a large tap, allowing for a thorough damage assessment.
“One mast will be replaced to a large extent and with a number of other masts, repairs will have to be carried out. the lines will also be replaced,” a Tennet spokesperson told Omrop Fryslân.
The repairs are being conducted in collaboration with Omrop Fryslân, a regional broadcaster.
