Restoring Power: It’s Not as Simple as Flipping a Switch

When the lights go out, it's natural to wonder why it's taking so long, or why the lights are back on across the street but not at your house. But power restoration isn't as simple as flipping a switch; it's a complex process that depends on the cause, location, and number of people affected.

How Restoration Works

Our crews' top priority is public safety. Downed power lines and poles are serious hazards, so they're handled first. Always assume any downed wire is energized, and never touch it or anything nearby.

Next, we inspect the large transmission lines that carry power from Bonneville Power Administration's (BPA) dams to our substations. If one is down, BPA must make repairs before power can be delivered to our system. While that happens, our crews patrol Central Lincoln lines, assess damage, clear hazards, and set up equipment so that once BPA power is flowing again, restoration can start quickly.

Then we turn to our substations, where high-voltage power is reduced and sent through our system. A substation outage can affect thousands, but system improvements often allow us to reroute power while repairs are underway.

From there, we focus on the distribution lines serving neighborhoods and towns. Hospitals, fire stations, and other emergency services come first, followed by areas that restore power to the most customers.

Once larger outages are resolved, we repair smaller tap lines and individual service connections. Damage at this level can leave just one house without power, even when the rest of the street is back on.

You may even see a truck nearby that doesn't stop. That doesn't mean we've overlooked you; it likely means the crew is assigned to another repair or emergency. Conditions change quickly during storms, and restoration plans have to adapt accordingly.

No matter where your home falls on the map, our crews are out there - often in the worst conditions - working their way toward you. Whether you're first or last to be restored, you're never forgotten.

Stay Informed and Be Ready

Report an Outage: You can report an outage using the SmartHub app or by calling (877) 265-3211. Our system uses your phone number to match your call with your service location, so please make sure we have your current number on file.

Check Outage Information: You can view current outages on our Outage Map and get updates on our Central Lincoln PUD Facebook page.

Be Prepared: Don't wait until the next storm to get ready. Assemble an emergency kit that includes food, water, flashlights, and extra batteries. Find helpful guidance on the Ready.gov emergency kit page.