Hidden heroes in hurricane restoration IT TAKES A VILLAGE

When hurricanes strike, the devastation left in their wake is often at the forefront of public attention. However, electric cooperatives become the unsung heroes working tirelessly to restore power to affected communities.

Dedicated professionals equipped with an efficient fleet, comprehensive safety measures and a well-coordinated emergency response plan work around the clock to restore power and ensure that life returns to normal as quickly as possible.

As they delve into the meticulous planning, resource management and financial considerations involved, these professionals shed light on some of the less visible aspects of hurricane preparedness and storm restoration.

Pre-storm prep

WEC departments, like engineering, ensure technology and software are up to date, while verifying the integrity of the Geographic Information System, or GIS, map. This map aids outside crews in navigating the electrical system, streamlining restoration efforts. WEC collaborates with PowerSouth Energy Cooperative before hurricane season, securing contracts for vital resources like right-of-way clearing and base camp facilities.

Financial considerations

“You may know a few days in advance that a hurricane is headed your way, but in most cases, at that time, it is too late to make major preparations for the financial impact,” says Lisa Lenoir, WEC’s chief financial officer. “We stay prepared for the worst at all times."

Proactive financial measures are taken to ensure stability during crises. WEC secures lines of credit with multiple financial institutions, maintaining relationships with CoBank, National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Service. These measures safeguard against financial strain, as seen during Hurricane Michael in 2018. Proper recordkeeping is essential for potential Federal Emergency Management Agency reimbursements, requiring adherence to strict procedures and accurate documentation of material usage and payroll information.

Post-storm restoration

Following a major storm with widespread outages, the full force of the co-op mobilizes to support the recovery efforts, sometimes working 16-hour days, exhibiting unwavering commitment to the cause.

“Our employees are essentially put on standby, and as soon as the event clears, they’re expected to help support the co-op in whatever need arises,” says Jason Thrash, vice president of engineering and operations. “It could be answering phones to report outages or providing support to other staff managing the restoration efforts.”

WEC staff members also help distribute meals, manage accommodations and assist with warehouse logistics and material distribution.

Challenges and solutions

Restoration efforts can face challenges, such as power outages at headquarters or communication system failures. WEC employs backup generators and satellite phones to maintain operations and communication. The co-op collaborates with contractors using tractors and bulldozers to clear debris, enabling access to affected areas.

“Whenever there’s a major event like a hurricane, our focus shifts to ensuring the safety and well-being of our members,” says WEC COO Brad Kimbro “It’s not just about restoring power; it’s about coming together as a community to support one another during challenging times. It’s a major effort, and I’m proud of our team’s commitment and hard work in the face of adversity.” 