When the power goes out, your co-op has a safe, efficient plan for power restoration.
Crews begin the restoration process by repairing power lines and equipment that will restore power to the greatest number of people in the shortest time possible.
This process typically begins with repairs to the larger main distribution lines that service a great number of homes and businesses. After those repairs are made, crews work on tap lines, which deliver power to transformers, either mounted on utility poles (for above-ground service) or placed on pads (for underground service). Finally, individual service lines that run between the transformer and the home are repaired.
Your co-op keeps a supply of extra utility poles, transformers and other equipment on hand to quickly respond in the event of an outage. When widespread outages occur, multiple crews are out in the field working to repair damage at multiple locations.
Using a proactive approach to maintenance helps minimize the chance of prolonged outages. That is why you see crews clearing vegetation in rights-of-way and trimming trees. Downed branches are a common cause of outages during a storm.
If you experience a power outage, don’t assume a neighbor reported it. It’s best to report the outage yourself. Your co-op likely has an outage reporting system via website, app or outage reporting phone number.
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, but you can feel confident knowing your co-op is standing by, ready to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
Source: Abby Berry, NRECA
