The electric power industry has a strong track record of maintaining high levels of reliability. At times, however, hurricanes, earthquakes, storms, and other natural disasters occur that cause significant damage to the energy grid, creating widespread power outages. Following these events, electric companies must respond safely, swiftly, and efficiently to restore service to affected customers.

Restoring power after a major storm is a complex task, and a speedy restoration requires significant logistical expertise, along with skilled line workers and specialized equipment. Electric companies affected by significant outages often turn to the industry’s mutual assistance network—a voluntary partnership of electric companies from across the country—to help speed restoration.

Mutual assistance is an essential part of the electric power industry’s service restoration process and contingency planning. The mutual assistance network is a cornerstone of electric utility operations during emergencies.

About Mutual Assistance

• Mutual Assistance 101​​ – An in-depth look at the Mutual Assistance Network and the industry’s response and restoration process.
• Mutual Assistance: 5 Things to Know
• EEI Mutual Assistance Agreement and Suggested Governing Principles Covering Emergency Assistance Arrangement Between EEI Member Companies
  
  Edison El​ectric Institute (“EEI”) member companies have established and implemented an effective system whereby member companies may receive and provide assistance in the form of personnel and equipment to aid in restoring and/or maintaining electric utility service when such service has been disrupted. 

Restoring Power

• Restoring Power After a Storm: A Step-by-Step Process
• The Storm Restoration Process (graphic)
• The Electric Power Industry Takes Flight – How electric companies now use drones to help assess damage after natural disasters.

Safety First

• Preparing for Power Outages – What to do before an outage occurs and if your power goes out.
• Emergency Outage Kit – Be prepared for a power outage with an emergency outage kit, which should always be stocked and easily accessible.
• Before and After the Storm
  
  Learn what companies are doing to implement system hardening and resiliency measures in response to storm-related outages.

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