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Ameren storm trailers aid power outage recovery efforts

BY JOHN D. HOMAN, THE SOUTHERN

Tuesday, May 20, 2008 1:51 PM CDT

MARION - When the ice storm struck the region in February, Ameren Illinois workers established a headquarters in Anna to begin the power restoration process. That restoration process was aided by a storm trailer on site that served as a mobile storehouse of supplies for workers.

On Monday in Marion, Ameren showcased one of its new trailers to the media and explained in detail how the utility responds when storms hit.

"We're very proud of our efforts," said Ron Pate, vice president of regional operations for Ameren Illinois. "We are no strangers to storm situations and put employee and public safety above all else."

Pate said the utility spends millions on tree trimming each year to help keep limbs from damaging power lines. Millions more are spent in replacing downed power lines and poles.

John Barud, Division VI manager for Ameren, said the company's preparation for storm coverage begins with a plan that allows for the proper equipment and personnel to be dispatched to the proper places in a timely manner.

"We have the ability to pull resources from not only Illinois but outside the state," Barud said, "because the goal is to get services restored to our customers as quickly as possible."

Barud said power lines are designed to handle some ice accumulation but February's storm was so significant that it forced many lines to buckle and eventually give way. In other instances, trees were uprooted and fell directly on lines, causing further interruption of service.

A strong wind added to the mix can also cause lines to "gallop" or bounce up and down, which provides additional stress to the lines.

"When galloping occurs, conductors may slap together and residents may see lights in their homes dim or drop off," Barud said. "Spring and summer storms are usually easier for us because they don't last very long and it's mostly a cleanup process for us."

Barud added that the Feb. 12 ice storm cost the company about $3 million to make power restorations in the region. That's almost half of the $7 million Ameren has paid out statewide from major storm events.

Larry Bevington, store supervisor for Division VI, said the trailers contain a variety of wiring, hardware, insulators, fuses, connectors and sleeves to attach with the wiring.

"This trailer can equip up to 250 linemen for restoration efforts," Bevington said.

john.homan@thesouthern.com  

351-5805