Penelec Successfully Conducts Annual Storm Restoration Drill to Enhance Preparedness for Severe Weather Events

Penelec, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., recently completed its annual emergency preparation drill focused on testing its storm restoration process. The tabletop exercise aimed to ensure that employees are well-prepared to handle severe weather events that may cause power outages in the company’s vast and heavily forested service area.

The drill, which took place both remotely and in-person at Penelec’s Clearfield facility, provided employees with a hybrid approach similar to real-life restoration activities. By utilizing electronic storm tools, participants were able to simulate fieldwork and practice managing work efficiently. The exercise aimed to review restoration processes and storm-management tools critical to safely and swiftly restoring power.

Scott Wyman, president of FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania operations, emphasized the importance of storm drills in preparing employees for severe weather conditions. He stated, “Regular emergency drills are another way we work to improve electric service for our customers, in addition to tree trimming and projects we do to harden our electric infrastructure and enhance its resiliency.”

The hypothetical scenario for this year’s drill focused on “Winter Storm April,” a potent system that swept into Pennsylvania from the southwest. The storm dropped over 2 feet of snow in several areas of Penelec’s service territory over two days, accompanied by wind gusts exceeding 50 miles per hour. The simulation aimed to replicate the type of storms that can impact Penelec customers during the winter and spring seasons.

During the exercise, Penelec activated its Incident Command System (ICS), a nationally recognized emergency management process used by various levels of government and organizations. This system helps coordinate the response to major storms or natural disasters effectively.

Following a severe weather event, Penelec crews follow a formal restoration process that prioritizes restoring power to critical facilities such as hospitals, communication centers, and emergency response agencies. They then work diligently to restore power to the rest of the customers as quickly as possible.

For more information on FirstEnergy’s storm restoration process and tips for staying safe during severe weather events, customers can visit the 24/7 Power Center on their website.

Penelec serves approximately 585,000 customers across northern and central Pennsylvania, covering an extensive service area of 17,600 square miles. FirstEnergy Corp. is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability, and operational excellence, with its electric distribution companies serving customers in multiple states.

Overall, Penelec’s successful completion of the annual storm restoration drill demonstrates its commitment to preparedness and ensuring efficient response to severe weather events. By continuously improving their processes and infrastructure, Penelec aims to provide reliable electric service to its customers, even in challenging conditions.