Outage Restoration

Steps Taken in the Restoration Process

1. TRANSMISSION LINES CHECKED: Transmission towers and lines supply power to one or more substations. These high-voltage lines rarely fail, but when damaged by events like hurricanes or tornadoes, tens of thousands of people may be affected. Because of their broad impact, transmission lines are checked first.
2. LOCAL DISTRIBUTION SUBSTATIONS CHECKED: A cooperative may operate several local substations, each serving thousands of members. When major outages occur, these substations are inspected early. If the issue is traced to the substation or its incoming transmission supply, restoring service here can return power to a large number of members at once.
3. MAIN DISTRIBUTION SUPPLY LINES CHECKED: If the problem is not at the substation, line crews next examine the main supply lines, which carry power from the substation to specific communities or developments. Repairs at this stage may restore service to entire neighborhoods or towns—unless further damage exists down the line.
4. TAP LINES CHECKED: Tap lines are the final distribution paths that bring electricity to utility poles or underground transformers near individual homes and businesses. Crews prioritize tap line repairs that will restore service to the most members in each area.
5. SERVICE LINES CHECKED: In some cases, the issue lies in the service line connecting your home to the nearby transformer. If your neighbor has power but you don’t, it’s likely this line is damaged. Let URECC know—crews need your report to investigate and restore service at your location.