Published 12.3.2010
7:30 pm.
Johnson, VT- At 5:00 a.m. this morning approximately 3,975 Vermont Electric Cooperative (VEC) members remained without power in the wake of Wednesday’s wind storm. Despite more than doubling resources, crews were not able to make as much progress today as initially anticipated. About 2300 VEC members remain without power heading into the weekend.

“Restoration efforts today were very slow due to the magnitude of the damage,” said Jeffrey Wright, Chief Operating Officer. “Instead of repairing our system-- in many areas we are literally rebuilding it. The further we get into the restoration process the more broken utility poles and cross-arms we find. Numbers currently exceed over 100 broken utility poles.” 

The outlook for Hinesburg and Williston areas became more dismal as the day went on. Damage was much more severe than originally expected and VEC began preparing members that they could be without power through the weekend. 

In a statewide utility conference call late this afternoon Green Mountain Power and Central Vermont Public Service offered more of their crews to assist in VEC’s restoration efforts. By daylight tomorrow there will be at least 300 line and tree crews working to get the lights back on for VEC members. 

Several downed power lines and trees remain throughout VEC’s service territory. The Coop urges members to stay away from downed power lines and do not attempt to remove trees or limbs off the lines. They may still be energized and could cause serious injuries or even death. Call VEC to report downed lines at 1-800-832-2667. 

For up to date information please go to the outage center on our website at www.vermontelectric.coop/outage.