As wildfires continue to burn in California, the CEO-led Electricity Subsector Coordinating Council held a call on Jan. 12 to ensure that electricity providers in the state have no unmet resource needs.
“The call brought together leaders from the highest levels of industry and government to ensure unity of effort across the electric power sector and with our federal partners,” the ESCC said.
With high winds and dry conditions still in the forecast, the ESCC is focused on supporting first responders.
“Customers are urged to heed all evacuation warnings and to avoid returning to evacuation zones until emergency officials have indicated it is safe to do so. The security and safety of firefighters, first responders, restoration crews, and residents is the top priority, and we are grateful for everyone involved in the ongoing wildfire response,” ESCC said.
Once the fires are fully contained, the entire electric power industry -- investor-owned electric companies, public power utilities, and electric cooperatives -- stands ready to support the rebuild efforts that will be essential to helping impacted communities recover, it said.
“Power restoration is a team effort, and strong industry-government coordination and cross-sector collaboration are essential.”
Established in 2012, the ESCC “has a proven track record of working across administrations and with senior government officials to support preparation for and response to emergencies that impact the electric power sector.”
Wildfires are a growing challenge across the country, it noted.
“Going forward, the ESCC will remain focused on mitigating wildfire threats, while working with government at all levels, landowners, and other critical sectors to develop a comprehensive national strategy that emphasizes community protection, wildfire prevention, responsible investment, and rapid recovery,” it said.