Estimated Restoration Times
After an Outage is Reported
We use an Estimated Time of Restoration (ETR) to gauge how long it takes to restore your power. When your power is out we work as safely and efficiently as possible to restore your service in a timely manner.
ETRs and Status Updates
After you've reported an outage, our system generates an ETR based on historical data collected from past outages. Usually these estimates range between two to eight hours. As we assess and repair damages, we'll update the ETR. Sometimes, conditions or our workforce availability force us to extend or shorten your ETR. You can always check the status of your outage online, or sign up for MyAlerts for updates by phone, text or email.
During a Storm Event
When power goes out, we understand you’re eager to know when it will be restored. Here’s a look at what goes into giving you that information after a major storm.
Damage Assessment Phase: Onset of Storm
Global ETR Phase
Work Plan (Regional) ETR Phase
Job Level (Local) ETR Phase
When the Power is Out
Causes of power outages
Power outages result from a loss of electricity. Top causes of power outages in our area include:
- Storms that bring lightning, high winds, ice, snow, or rain.
- Trees and branches that come into contact with electric lines.
- Animal contact with equipment and power lines.
- Accidents, like cars hitting utility poles.
- Equipment failure from corrosion, wear and tear, and aging parts.
- Protective relay equipment, similar to the circuit breakers in your home, that cut off power when a problem arises.
If your neighbors have power but you don't:
If your power isn't back on, here are some possible reasons why:
- Your neighbors' power may be on a different circuit, or they may have a generator.
- Homes with backyard service: Utility poles and equipment in backyards are more difficult to access. When our linemen must climb poles to install equipment, set poles by hand-digging, and run service wires to homes without using aerial lifts, power restoration takes longer.
- If your restored power goes out again, your circuit experienced other problems. For our safety, we temporarily cut power so we can make other repairs.
What's taking so long?
We're working to restore your power as safely and efficiently as possible. But sometimes, restoring power takes longer in some areas. If your power isn't back on, here are some possible reasons why:
- Repair crews must wait until it's safe for them to begin work.
- Homes with backyard service: Utility poles and equipment in backyards are more difficult to access. When our linemen must climb poles to install equipment, set poles by hand-digging, and run service wires to homes without using aerial lifts, power restoration takes longer.
Why are there crews just standing around?
- Our crews have different responsibilities. Some conduct damage assessments; others ensure the public's safety. Often, the first person on the scene conducts damage assessments. He collects the information we need to send the right repair crew.