Trees contacting power lines can lead to inconvenient and costly power outages. One tree can create problems for hundreds or even thousands of people if distribution or transmission lines are involved, as they are part of a larger system. Trees cause most power outages on our Newport Utilities system.

Trees and vegetation can also become electrically charged through contact with high-voltage distribution lines, resulting in lethal amounts of voltage within the reach of people and pets. It is our responsibility at Newport Utilities to maintain safety in our community by keeping vegetation a secure distance from power lines and other equipment.

Newport Utilities’ vegetation management program not only helps to mitigate safety and reliability concerns, but also reduces the cost of maintaining the transmission and distribution system. We use multiple methods to maintain the ROW, including tree trimming or removal, mowing and the application of herbicides.

Herbicide use as a means of vegetation growth management is an industry standard for electric utilities, railroads, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and other property owners. At Newport Utilities, we require that all state, local, and federal laws are adhered to, and any required licenses or permits must be obtained. Aquatic and pollinator friendly products and practices will be used. A low-volume backpack or mark-and-squirt application targeting only woody, stemmed plants will occur within a reasonable amount of time after a mechanical clearing. This will allow dormant grass and wildflower seed to repopulate the ROW. Newport Utilities’ contractors are experienced vegetation-management companies. The herbicide products used by Newport Utilities have undergone rigorous toxicological, environmental and chemical testing, are endorsed by local apiarist, and have been approved federally.

Here at Newport Utilities, we make every effort to minimize the impact of these activities while ensuring affordable and reliable energy for the communities we serve. 

If you have any questions about our Newport Utilities vegetation management program, please contact Marlon Hance, Right-of-Way Maintenance Supervisor, at 423-532-3547.

How to calculate electric usage costs:
1. Volts multiplied by Amps = Watts
2. Watts divided by 1,000 – Kilowatts (kW)
3. Kilowatts (kW) x Hours of Use = Kilowatt Hours (kWh)
4. Kilowatt Hours (kWh) x kWh rate = Cost of Usage
Current electric rates can be found HERE. Add the “Energy Charge” plus the “FCA” (TVA Fuel Cost Adjustment) for the total kWh rate.

Not in the mood to do the math? Click Here for a sample of common appliance usage.

We’re putting our energy into efficiency.

Why is NU replacing existing meters with Smart Meters? Smart Meters bring many benefits to our customers through operational efficiencies and enhanced service. A few examples of the many benefits are improved energy management, minimized utility visits to your home through remote meter reading and remote turn-on and turn-off capabilities, a well as improved outage response.

Learn more about the project by visiting our Smart Meter Project page HERE.

We offer several types of dusk-to-dawn security lights available for installation. Availability varies so please contact our office at 423-625-2800 and request more information from a customer service representative.

Attachments on or Within NU’s Infrastructure
Newport Utilities partners with local service providers to allow the use of NU’s infrastructure to enhance services available to our community. NU’s Attachment Guidelines for Wired Attachments, Wireless Attachments, Equipment Attachments, and Conduit Usage provides the framework for entities requesting access to our utility infrastructure.

APPLICATION FOR NEW ATTACHMENTS
Prior to requesting access to the NU infrastructure, please:

1. Become familiar with NU’s Attachment Guidelines for Wired Attachments, Wireless Attachments, Equipment Attachments, and Conduit Usage.
2. Establish a one-time Infrastructure Use Agreement with NU.
3. Complete the Infrastructure Use Application.
4. A Newport Utilities representative will be in touch to finalize the application.