Case Study

Dominion Energy

Utility: Dominion Energy
Location: Columbia, South Carolina, United States
Infrastructure Type: Wood distribution poles

Dominion Energy operates extensive electric infrastructure across the southeastern United States, where wooden utility poles are exposed to environmental stressors, wildlife activity, and long service lifecycles.

Dominion Energy wood utility pole reinforcement in South Carolina for woodpecker prevention and grid resilience

The Challenge

Woodpecker damage is a persistent issue for utilities operating in forested regions. Birds excavate cavities in wooden utility poles for nesting and drumming, removing structural wood fiber and creating entry points for moisture and decay.

In some cases, this damage occurs at elevated sections of the pole, well above the ground line. These locations are particularly challenging because they:

  • Affect load-bearing sections of the pole
  • Increase the risk of structural weakening
  • Require specialized repair approaches due to working height

Utilities must find ways to restore structural integrity without replacing otherwise functional poles.

The Solution

GridWrap installed BULLWRAP® composite reinforcement on wood poles damaged by woodpeckers in Columbia, South Carolina. The reinforcement was applied at the elevated damaged section of the pole, targeting the area where cavities had compromised structural strength.

The installation process included:

  • Preparing the damaged pole section
  • Applying BULLWRAP® composite reinforcement at the affected height
  • Restoring structural integrity to the damaged area

The installation was completed using standard field equipment while maintaining normal utility operations.

Dominion Energy wood utility pole reinforcement in South Carolina for woodpecker prevention and grid resilience

The Result

The reinforcement successfully restored structural strength to the damaged pole section while preventing further deterioration.

The installation demonstrated that BULLWRAP® can:

  • Reinforce woodpecker-damaged poles at elevated locations
  • Restore structural capacity without full pole replacement
  • Protect damaged areas from additional wildlife excavation
  • Extend the service life of existing infrastructure

This targeted reinforcement approach allows utilities to repair wildlife damage efficiently while maintaining pole functionality.

 

Scroll to Top