“Along the way, I’ve learned a few things. I often tell young people one of the best things they can do is decide to be a teachable person. You can learn something from everyone, even your worst critic.”
Providing reliable power to you is and will always be a top priority for SEMO Electric Cooperative. These days, power reliability seems to be making news more than ever.
As the energy industry continues to transition and more segments of the economy are becoming electrified, such as vehicles, machinery, and even lawn equipment, additional pressures are being placed on our nation’s electric grid.
With summer storm season upon us, I thought it would be a good time to tell you about a few measures we’re taking to ensure you continue receiving the reliable power you depend on and deserve.
While trees provide shade and add beauty to our area, you may be surprised to learn that overgrown vegetation accounts for about half of all power outages. That’s why we strive to keep the co-op’s power lines clear in right-of-way (ROW) areas. A ROW area is the land a co-op uses to construct, maintain, replace, or repair underground and overhead power lines. This ROW enables SEMO Electric to provide clearance from trees and other obstructions that could hinder the distribution of power lines.
Generally speaking, healthy trees don’t fall on power lines, and clear lines don’t cause problems. Proactive trimming and pruning keep lines clear to improve power reliability. It entails on-the-ground, labor-intensive efforts involving dozens of workers assessing vegetation and overseeing the quality and completion of contractor work. I appreciate how Team SEMO and our contractor Townsend Tree Service work together as vegetation management is an essential tool in ensuring power reliability and minimizing the risk of outages.
Book of the Month: “Along the way I’ve learned a few things. I often tell young people one of the best things they can do is decide to be a teachable person. You can learn something from everyone, even your worst critic.” Not My First Rodeo by Kristi Noem Book
Be smart. Act safe. #keeppushingforward
Vanslyke is the general manager and chief executive officer of SEMO Electric Cooperative.