Customer Newsletter, September 2010

Trimming Future Problems

We all enjoy the beauty trees add to our region, especially during the upcoming fall season. But, we also enjoy the comfort of knowing power will be available when we need it. At Southern Power District, we're committed to providing you with reliable power. There are some things we can't stop...high winds, ice storms, and tornadoes, but we do what we can to prevent other outage culprits.

As you can probably guess, weather-related events cause the majority of power outages for power districts, a whopping 19 percent according to a survey by our national service organization, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. But vegetation-trees, shrubs, brush-growing too close to power lines and distribution equipment leads to 15 percent of power interruptions.

To reduce the potential for tree-related problems, we operate an aggressive tree trimming program. Our crews look for foliage growing under lines, overhanging branches, leaning or other types of "danger" trees that could pull down a power line if they fall, and trees that could grow into lines.

It's a job that's never done. By the time crews finish trimming activities along our 7,000 miles of distribution lines, vegetation has started to grow back at the starting point.

In working to keep a safe, reliable, and affordable supply of power flowing to your home or business, we need your help. Let us know if you notice trees or branches that might pose a risk to our power lines. Even more important, before planting trees in your yard, think about how tall they may grow and how wide their branches may spread. As a rule of thumb, 25 feet of ground-to-sky clearance should be available on each side of our utility poles to give power lines plenty of space. Choose tree varieties with care and plant with power lines in mind.

Thanks for your help as we work together to keep electricity reliable. To report trees you think may pose a problem, call Southern Power District. To find out more about proper tree planting, visit www.arborday.org.

See some pictures of a tree trimming crew in action.

Other stories you'll find inside this edition:
  • Planting Savings
    • If you have a yard with landscaping options, the right combination of plants and trees can unearth hidden energy savings. More>>>
  • EnergyWise Tip: Weatherize Your Home and Use Less Energy
    • Properly sealing and insulating your home is a cost-effective way to become more energy efficient. More>>>
  • Around the District
    • Highlights of various projects our linemen have been working on this summer. More>>>
  • Generlink Transfer Switch
    • If you would like to use a generator to get through the inconvenience of a storm0related outage, we have a new program for you to consider. More>>>
  • Recipe Box: Zucchini Brownies
    • Big thanks to Sandra Warford for providing this recipe! More>>>