Florida public power utility Keys Energy Services recently completed a review of power outage statistics for calendar year 2022 that showed power reliability levels are at all-time highs for the utility.
In 2022, KEYS customer distribution outages averaged 33.5 minutes compared to an average of 76.5 minutes in 2021.
“Our exceptional reliability statistics are impressive on their own, but even more so when you consider that our infrastructure is subject to a highly corrosive marine environment and to extreme weather events at times,” said Lynne Tejeda, KEYS’ General Manager and CEO.
KEYS has a rigorous reliability program in place which helps result in fewer power outages, it noted.
Reliability projects of note include:
- A relay coordination study
- Fiber-optic inter-connection between relays
- Installation of a voltage regulation systems in Stock Island and Big Pine Key electrical substations
- Continuation of KEYS’ tree trimming program
- Installation of field reclosers with single phase tripping to help contain power outages and prevent them from becoming widespread and
- Storm hardening efforts that have replaced one-third of all utility poles within KEYS’ service area with concrete and ductile iron poles capable of withstanding 150 mile-per-hour winds.
KEYS is the public power utility for the Lower Florida Keys. Headquartered in Key West, Florida, KEYS provides electricity from Key West to the Seven-Mile Bridge and serves more than 30,000 customers.
