Powering up
How Power Is Restored
When electricity goes out, most of us expect power will be restored within a few hours. But when a major storm causes widespread damage, longer outages may result. Tipmont line crews work long, hard hours to restore service safely to the greatest number of members in the shortest time possible.
The Process
When the Power Goes Out
- High-Voltage Transmission Lines
Transmission towers and cables that supply power to transmission substations (and thousands of members) rarely fail. But when damaged, these facilities must be repaired before other parts of the system can operate.
- Distribution Substation
Each substation serves hundreds or thousands of members. When a major outage occurs, line crews inspect substations to determine if problems stem from transmission lines feeding into the substation, the substation itself or somewhere down the line.
- Main Distribution Lines
If the problem cannot be isolated at a distribution substation, distribution lines are checked. These carry power to large groups of members in communities or housing developments.
- Tap Lines
If local outages persist, we inspect tap lines (also known as supply lines). These lines deliver power to transformers either mounted on poles or placed on pads for underground service outside businesses, schools and homes.
- Individual Homes
If your home remains without power, the service line between a transformer and your residence may need to be repaired. Always call 800-726-3953 to report an outage to help our line crews quickly find where the problem is occurring.
