Your Tree Can Help Build Climate Resilience

When severe weather hits, the biggest threat to safety and reliability is not always lightning or flooding — it’s trees.

Downed trees and overgrown branches are among the leading causes of power outages, according to Duquesne Light Company (DLC) which serves over 600,000 customers in Allegheny and Beaver counties.

High winds, saturated soil and weakened limbs can turn trees into dangerous hazards when they fall. These incidents can block access for emergency responders, damage infrastructure and slow power restoration for entire neighborhoods.

It’s why DLC takes a year-round, storm-focused approach to vegetation management. But property owners can play a role too, by planting utility-safe trees.

Right tree, right place

Trees planted too close to power lines or electrical equipment are more likely to create problems as they mature, especially during strong storms. It also puts them at risk of pruning.

Arborists and utility experts often emphasize a “right tree, right place” approach to planting, which can be organized by three zones:

• Red zone: Near power lines, choose tree species that won’t grow taller than 25 feet at maturity.
• Yellow zone: Acceptable for larger trees up to 40 feet tall.
• Green zone: Trees that reach up to 60 feet should be planted farthest from electrical equipment.

Over time, and across the entire region, these decisions can make a big impact. Not only does it protect the grid and enhance community resilience, it also benefits the local ecosystem by allowing more trees to thrive for years to come.

When tree removal is necessary

In 2026, DLC will maintain over 40,000 trees and routinely inspect them for risks that could affect power lines or threaten reliability and public safety.
When tree pruning or total removal is required, DLC crews take smaller branches as part of the process, but will leave behind larger sections of wood in manageable pieces. For those who need help, DLC’s Referral Network provides information to find trusted, qualified wood removal professionals.

Supporting climate resilience

As storms become more severe in southwestern Pennsylvania, the choices homeowners make — alongside the work utilities do every day — help shape a stronger, more resilient region.
Learn more about how to safely plant trees around electrical equipment, including lists of utility-safe trees and shrubs.