What Are They?
Transients and high frequency noise occur when 60-cycle (Hertz, HZ) power, the standard alternating current used by utilities nationwide, becomes distorted.

The most common cause of distortion is from the effects of electric devices such as radios, computers, cell phones and microwaves on the wiring in a home or building. Noise also is occasionally transmitted across the electric grid due to switching within the grid, sudden changes in customer loads, lightning or temporary faults. Even high frequency signals from television and radio stations can cause noise because the wiring can act as an inefficient antenna.

The noise from any source may interfere with some electric-powered equipment. A good example is the "snow" you see on your television when vacuuming.

There are no proven health effects from high frequency noise at normal levels of exposure.

There is equipment that claims to remove high frequency noise or to “send it back” to the utility. These devices do not eliminate the source of the high frequency signal, and do not allow a high frequency signal to be transmitted back to We Energies. More important, devices not approved by an independent testing agency such as Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) may create unsafe conditions. We Energies does not sell these devices, nor do we endorse them.

Our Position
We support research studying the causes of high frequency noise and how to minimize its potential effect on sensitive electronic equipment.

Contact Us
(800) 242-9137