Restoring Power Safely and Efficiently
We do our best to avoid them, but there’s no way around it: power outages occasionally happen.
For most San Bernard Electric Cooperative members, outages are rare and only last a few hours. But when major storms, like Hurricane Harvey impact our area, extended outages are unavoidable.
So, when the power goes out, how do SBEC crews know where to start working? How do you know if your outage has been reported? We’ve got answers to these questions and more, and it all starts with a safe, efficient plan for power restoration.
When the lights go out and it’s safe for our crews to begin the restoration process, they start by repairing power lines and equipment that will restore power to the greatest number of people in the shortest time possible.
This process typically begins with repairs to the larger main distribution lines that service a great number of homes and businesses. After those repairs are made, crews work on tap lines, which deliver power to transformers, either mounted on utility poles (for above-ground service) or placed on pads (for underground service). Finally, individual service lines that run between the transformer and the home are repaired.
We can’t control the weather, but we can prepare for it. SBEC keeps a supply of extra equipment on hand so we can quickly get to work in the event of an outage. When widespread outages occur, multiple crews will be out in the field simultaneously working to repair damage at multiple locations.
A proactive approach to maintenance helps minimize the chance of prolonged outages; this is why you see crews periodically trimming trees and clearing vegetation near rights-of-way. We love trees too, but it only takes one overgrown limb to knock out power for an entire neighborhood. Trimming improves power reliability for our entire community. In addition to managing vegetation, we regularly inspect utility poles, power lines and other critical equipment to maintain a more reliable system.
If you experience a power outage, the quickest way to report an outage is through TEXT POWER by texting 85700 or you can also call our outage reporting number at 800-364-3171.
If you have a medical condition that requires electrical equipment, please let us know, and always have a backup plan in place. This plan could include a portable generator, extra medical supplies or moving to an alternate location until power is restored. If you plan to use a generator for backup power, read all safety information and instructions before use.
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, but as a member of SBEC, you can feel confident knowing we’re standing by, ready to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
To Report an Outage, Call SBEC at 1.800.364.3171 or Text SBEC to 85700.
Click here to find out more ways to contact SBEC during an outage.
Click Here To Monitor Outage Restoration Efforts, Check Out SBEC's Outage Map
Click Here For Link To SBEC's Facebook Page - For Major Outage Restoration Information
Click Here For Current Weather Conditions
Click here for SBEC's Restoration Process