Equipping utilities to restore power quickly and efficiently

BY JOE D’ORAZIO, HD Supply Power Solutions

In the days before Hurricane Sandy hit the East Coast of the United States, knocking out power from North Carolina to Maine and as far inland as Western Pennsylvania, utility contractors were busy preparing for a response. Weather and nature are unstoppable forces, but the results of their fury are the same: restore power and repair the damage caused by the storm.

When there are large areas of downed lines, utilities call in help from surrounding states, whether from crews from other utility companies or independent contractors. Electric utilities must ensure that the appropriate tools and supplies required are readily available to minimize obstacles faced during the restoration process.

The key to restoring power is ensuring that field crews can mobilize as quickly as possible with the right equipment and supplies. One possible solution that can help achieve this goal is emergency response kitting.