The company's objective is to restore power to the largest number of customers in the shortest possible time. However, safety is Tampa Electric's primary concern throughout the restoration period. The intent is to restore power to the entire service area as uniformly as possible. To implement the storm plan, Tampa Electric relies upon many departments to work through storm emergencies. Tampa Electric employees receive and coordinate damage information, establish work priorities and relay information to crews in the field.
Preparation begins before the storm arrives.
When a storm's arrival is imminent, crews are placed on call so that they are immediately available to repair any damage affecting Tampa Electric's lines and equipment. During extremely hazardous conditions, however, field crews do not begin restoration work until they can do so safely. Customers play a role in restoring service. Tampa Electric's storm plan also relies on teams of employees patrolling the electric system to identify or pinpoint problems. These lines may still be energized.