Wake Forest Power recognized for reliable electric service
Wake Forest Power (WFP) has received national recognition for achieving exceptional electric reliability in 2021. The recognition comes from the American Public Power Association (APPA), a trade group that represents more than 2,000 not-for-profit, community-owned electric utilities.
APPA helps members track outage and restoration data through its subscription-based eReliability Tracker service, then compares the data to national statistics tracked by the U.S. Energy Information Administration for all types of electric utilities.
WFP conducts annual reviews of its system to identify areas that may need improvement and performs ongoing maintenance to prevent service interruptions. According to the numbers for 2021, WFP’s average outage time was only 26 minutes, compared to the industry average of 127 minutes.
This means that measured over approximately 7,000 electric meters, a customer’s total outage time was about 100 minutes shorter than the national average.
“We are proud to receive this recognition,” said Electric Utility Director Chris Terrell. “It is a testament to the hard work of all our employees to ensure that the lights stay on for all our customers.”
According to Terrell, WFP’s success can be traced to several factors, including its year-round tree-trimming efforts, the widespread installation of underground power lines, and the collaboration of engineers, linemen, and supervisors in the development of best practices that help reduce outage incidents, but when they occur ensure faster restorations.
A division of the Town of Wake Forest, Wake Forest Power works year-round to provide uninterrupted electric service to nearly 7,000 residential and commercial customers.
Through its Reliability Improvement Program, Wake Forest Power operates and maintains two electric substations and more than 95 miles of overhead electric distribution lines. Due to these efforts, Wake Forest Power customers enjoy dependable electric service 99.9% of the time.
For more information about Wake Forest Power, visit www.wakeforestnc.gov/wake-forest-power.