FROM the TOP CEO ADDRESS

As April begins, so does storm season. This time of year, reliability is at the top of our minds at OEC. We’ve made significant strides over the years to ensure your power stays on, and when outages do occur, we restore service as quickly as possible.

Every decision we make regarding reliability is a balance between investment and impact. We always ask: How can we maximize reliability improvements most cost-effectively? Not every upgrade is worth the cost, but wise investments can make a significant difference. One of the most effective tools we’ve implemented is our self-healing grid.

About 10% of our system has self-healing technology, and we are strategically expanding its reach. This technology automatically detects outages, isolates the problem and reroutes power within minutes without needing a crew to be dispatched. In contrast, traditional outage restoration can take an hour or more. By reducing restoration times from hours to minutes, we’re improving reliability in a way that makes financial sense for our members.

Of course, even with technological advancements, linemen remain at the heart of our operations. Their expertise and dedication ensure that power and internet service is restored quickly and safely when storms hit. April also brings Lineworker Appreciation Day, a time to recognize the men and women who work tirelessly, often in extreme conditions, to keep the lights on and the internet connection flowing.

It’s a job that is both rewarding and challenging. When winter storms roll in or severe weather strikes, we advise you to stay off the roads. That’s when our lineworkers and fiber techs head out. Whether it’s ice, wind or lightning damage, they respond at all hours, restoring power to homes and businesses as safely and efficiently as possible.

Lineworkers are the face of OEC in the field, and their dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. This month, I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate the work they do. Whether it’s a simple thank you, a wave when you see them out working or a message of support, your appreciation means a lot.

As we move forward, we remain committed to improving reliability while keeping costs in check. With an innovative approach to infrastructure investments and a team of skilled professionals ready to serve, we’re prepared for whatever this storm season brings. Thank you for your trust in OEC.