Storm & Outage Center
Questions Answered. Severe Weather Updates. Support Provided.

Q: Are crews working around the clock?
A: During major outages, PES Energize may request and receive mutual aid from other utilities and contractors to help restore service as quickly and safely as possible.

Q: I received a text saying my power is restored, but it’s not. Why?
A: We understand how frustrating that can be. In some cases, our system shows an area as restored when the main line has been repaired, even though a few homes may still be without power due to localized damage. Issues such as a damaged transformer, service line, or individual connection may still need attention. If your power is still out, please report the outage again so we can ensure your location is included in our work orders.

Q: Can you tell me if my power is on if I’m not at home?
A: At this time, we are unable to confirm service status for individual locations remotely. Power status is best verified at the property once access is available.

Q: Why does my neighbor have power but I don’t?
A: Restoration follows a structured process. Homes located close together may be served by different lines, transformers, or sections of equipment. Some parts of the system can be repaired sooner than others, which may result in nearby homes having power while yours is still out. If you are without service, please report your outage so we can accurately track and address all affected locations.

Q: When will my power be restored? Can you provide a timeframe?
A: Restoration times vary by location based on the extent of damage. Crews first focus on repairing major three-phase lines — the backbone of our system — before moving into neighborhoods and individual service lines. While we work to restore service as quickly and safely as possible, specific restoration times may not be immediately available. Please follow PES Energize through our website, outage map, and social media channels for regular updates as work progresses.

Q: Why don’t I see crews working in my area?
A: PES Energize crews work throughout our entire service territory during outage restoration. Even if you do not see trucks in your immediate neighborhood, crews may be working at substations or on major lines that serve your area. Restoration begins with repairing three-phase lines — the backbone of our system — before moving into residential neighborhoods and individual service lines.

Q: What wiring standards or codes should be followed?
A: Information regarding approved wiring standards and electrical requirements can be found on our Residential Construction page.

Q: Who is responsible for repairs?
A: PES Energize maintains and repairs electrical equipment up to and including the meter. Customers are responsible for equipment on their side of the meter, including wiring, panels, weather heads, and service components attached to the home or building.

Q: Am I responsible for repairing a weather head that has been pulled off my house?
A: Yes. The weather head and service equipment attached to your home are the customer’s responsibility. After power has been restored to your area, please contact a licensed electrician to complete the necessary repairs. Once repairs are made and approved if required, PES Energize can assist with reconnecting service.

Q: Will PES Energize remove storm debris?
A: PES Energize crews remove debris only as necessary to safely access equipment and restore power. General yard cleanup and debris removal on private property are the responsibility of the customer.

Q: What should I do if I see a downed power line? Can PES remove lines hanging across my driveway or home?
A: Always assume a downed or low-hanging power line is energized and dangerous. Stay away and keep others clear of the area.

• For emergencies or immediate danger: Call 911.
• For non-emergency situations or to report a line down on your property: Contact PES Energize so we can document the issue and dispatch crews as needed.
• To report a broken pole: Please call PES Energize directly so we can respond appropriately.

Q: Should I remove tree limbs from power lines?
A: No. Never attempt to remove trees, limbs, or debris from power lines. Always treat any line as energized and dangerous. Contact PES Energize so trained crews can handle the situation safely.

Q: Will PES Energize reimburse for food lost during an outage?
A: No, PES Energize does not reimburse for food loss. However, some homeowner or renter insurance policies may provide coverage. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to review your policy.

Q: Will late fees be waived?
A: During significant events, service disconnections for non-payment may be temporarily suspended. If that occurs, PES Energize will communicate it publicly. Customers remain responsible for their account balance unless otherwise announced.

Q: Will I still receive a bill during an outage? Will there be a discount?
A: Yes. Electric bills reflect actual usage. If your power is out, your meter is not recording usage, so you are not being charged for electricity during that time. Extended outages typically result in lower overall usage.

Q: Where can I charge my devices during an outage?
A: During extended outages, community shelters or designated public facilities may be available to assist, including providing charging access. Please monitor local announcements for locations and availability.

Q: Can I use a generator during an outage?
A: Yes. Generators may be used during power outages, but they must be operated safely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Always run generators outdoors, away from doors, windows, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide exposure. Never connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring without a properly installed transfer switch.

Q: I need documentation for my employer regarding an outage. What should I do?
A: Please contact PES Energize and request outage documentation from a Customer Service Representative. We will assist you with the information available for your account.

Q: Where can I get updates during an outage?
A: PES Energize provides updates through the following channels:

• PES Energize social media pages (Facebook, Instagram)
• Our official website
• The outage map on our website
• Text alerts
• Local media outlets

We encourage customers to monitor these sources for the most current information during outages or severe weather events.

Q: Does medical priority guarantee faster restoration?
A: No. Power restoration follows a structured process based on system design, safety, and the overall repair plan. PES Energize does not maintain a medical priority restoration list. We strongly encourage customers who rely on electricity for medical needs to prepare for the possibility of extended outages.

Q: What if I depend on medical equipment?
A: Customers who rely on medical devices should have a backup power plan in place. During extended outages, local emergency services may provide assistance or transportation to designated warming stations with power and water available. Please monitor local announcements for specific information and availability.

Q: What should I do if I notice flickering lights or a burning smell?
A: If you experience flickering lights, unusual odors, or a burning smell, turn off power at your breaker panel immediately and contact PES Energize right away. These may indicate a safety concern that requires prompt attention.

Q: What if everyone around me has power but I don’t?
A: First, check your breaker panel to ensure no breakers have tripped. If your breakers are on and your power is still out, please report the outage so we can investigate any localized issues affecting your service.

Q: Do I need to reset my equipment?
A: If electric service has been restored and you are still experiencing internet issues, please try rebooting your modem and router.

Q: Why do I have power but no internet?
A: Electric and fiber services operate on separate systems and may be restored at different times. In some cases, fiber equipment may require additional repairs. During outage events, PES Energize monitors its network and dispatches fiber technicians as needed to restore service to subscribers who remain without internet access.