Restoring power during widespread outages involves much more than flipping a switch or removing a fallen tree off a line. At each stage of the restoration process, First Electric crews work to restore power safely to the greatest number of our members in the shortest time possible.

Remember to report an outage, even if you think a neighbor already has. This helps co-op employees isolate and repair the problem. Just call 888-827-3322 or use the First Electric App.

Steps to Restoring Power

1. High-Voltage Transmission Lines
   

   Transmission towers and cables that supply power to transmission substations (and thousands of members) rarely fail. When damaged, though, these facilities must be repaired before other parts of the system can operate.
   

2. Distribution Substation
   

   First Electric has 50 substations, each serving up to thousands of members. When a major outage occurs, line crews inspect the substation to determine if problems stem from transmission lines feeding into the substation, the substation itself or an issue down the line.

3. Main Distribution Lines

   If the problem cannot be isolated at a distribution substation, distribution lines are checked. These lines carry power to large groups of members in communities or housing developments. When power is restored at this stage, all members served by this supply line can see the lights come on, as long as there is no problem further down the line.

4. Tap Lines

   If an outage persists, supply lines, also called tap lines, are inspected. These lines deliver power to transformers, either mounted on poles or placed on pads for underground service, outside businesses, schools and homes.

5. Individual Homes
   

   If your home remains without power while your neighbor has electricity, it could indicate a problem with the service line between the transformer and your home. This is why it's important to always report an outage. 

   Sometimes an outage is caused by a problem with the service installation on your home, business or other building. First Electric can’t fix anything beyond our equipment, so a licensed electrician is needed in those cases.

   Individual households may receive special attention if the loss of electricity affects life support systems or poses another immediate danger. If you or a family member depends on life support, please call 800-489-7405 before an emergency arises. When widespread outages occur, First Electric crews will fix the problem as soon as possible.