August 28, 2011

Johnson, VT- By 10:00 p.m. about 8,000 Vermont Electric Cooperative (VEC) members had felt the effects of strong winds and heavy rains caused by Hurricane Irene which resulted in widespread power outages. Restoration efforts took place throughout the day and electricity was back on for more than half of those affected by nightfall. Utility crews will continue work early Monday morning to repair the VEC system and restore electricity to the approximately 4,400 members still without power.

“VEC’s operations staff closely monitored Hurricane Irene in the days leading up to her arrival,” said CEO Dave Hallquist. “All indicators pointed to the likelihood of heavy damage and widespread outages, so we brought dozens of contract utility and tree crews from as far away as Missouri and Tennessee to help VEC line workers get our members back online as safely and quickly as possible.”

A full damage assessment will take place on Monday morning. Normally, with good conditions, restoration for most outages would be expected by the end of the day on Monday, with the remainder following on Tuesday. However, poor road conditions caused by heavy rains and flooding have hampered the ability of utility crews to safely access utility lines and poles for repairs and could delay power restoration for some customers until later in the week.

“Safety for our members and employees is always VEC’s top priority,” continued Hallquist. “This devastating storm has caused extensive damage by uprooting trees and bringing down power lines. We remind members of the public never to touch downed power lines or any objects in contact with them. Please call VEC to report outages and safety concerns.”

VEC’s member service staff is working around the clock to provide support to customers until all outages are restored. Outages should be reported by calling 1-800-832-2667. 

For more information please visit VEC’s website at www.vermontelectric.coop/outage.