Providing reliable power is at the core of our mission. While most members have experienced reliable service this year, we also know some have experienced multiple outages. We understand how disruptive an unexpected outage can be, whether you’re working from home, running a business, or simply trying to enjoy time with your family. So over the next three months, I’d like to share some of what’s been causing those outages and talk about how we’re responding to keep reliability our number one priority.

We will look at specific numbers in the coming months, but this month I want to thank several important groups. First, to our employees, who have worked countless extra hours this year restoring power safely and as quickly as possible. Restoring power takes every department, from operations and engineering to IT, member services, and accounting. Day or night, weekdays or holidays, our employees are always ready to answer the call.

Second, to the hundreds of members who have called, emailed, or shared encouraging words on social media for our crews during this year’s storms. One comment from Pat in Sellersburg captures exactly what we strive for: “When outages occur, I feel like the team works hard to restore our power. Since I have been with REMC, there have been very few occurrences, and I always get a response as to how long we’ll be without power”

That’s our goal: fewer outages, faster restoration, and better communication when the lights do go out. We’ve already made improvements to our outage map and text notification system, with additional enhancements planned later this year to keep you better informed when outages occur.

In the next two issues, we’ll take a closer look at what’s driving outages across our system and the investments we’re making to improve reliability. Reliable electric service isn’t something we take for granted. It’s a standard you deserve, and one we’re committed to delivering every day.