Routine Maintenance Helps the Co-op Prevent Outages

One way the DEC team delivers reliable service to our members is through routine, preventative maintenance across our system. 

Working with local contractors, the Co-op performs pole-top equipment inspections. Using drones and infrared technology, these crews can detect potential areas for repair on DEC's field equipment by identifying hotspots — areas of increased temperature within the equipment that could indicate potential issues. These inspections enable our team to catch preventable issues early to avoid unnecessary outages. 

Another way the Co-op maintains reliability is through vegetation management. Aggressive tree trimming prevents limbs from growing too close to power lines — a major cause of outages, especially during storms when they are more likely to break and fall onto our lines. Similarly, vegetation that grows too close to electrical equipment on members' property — such as pad mount transformers or power pedestals — can prevent our crews from restoring power quickly when outages do occur. Members can help prevent these delays and keep Co-op employees safe by following DEC's regulations regarding planting near electrical equipment. 

To learn more about the Co-op's reliability efforts, planting guidance and when crews may be working in your area, visit our Smart Planting page.