Addressing the challenges of electric pole design and material selection: A review of current practices and future directions

Electricity is vital for everyday human activities yet meeting the escalating demand for reliable energy presents significant challenges. The government has undertaken efforts to extend electricity access to remote areas; however, the transmission process from generating stations to end-users faces obstacles related to design, material selection, and protection. This overview evaluates the advantages and limitations of concrete, steel, and timber poles commonly used in power distribution networks. Various factors impact the performance of these materials, including steel corrosion, concrete reinforcement, prestress loss, insect infestations, adverse weather conditions, seismic events, and construction methods. Despite efforts to reinforce poles and extend their service life, the mechanisms underlying pole failure remain inadequately understood. Strengthening measures are frequently employed to mitigate deterioration, yet the fatigue effects on existing poles have not been thoroughly investigated, exacerbating their susceptibility to environmental stressors. Consequently, it is imperative to consider the specific environmental and geographical factors influencing pole performance during the design phase to ensure the reliability and longevity of electricity distribution systems.