LADWP Assists PG&E with Restoring Power to Customers after Northern California Storms Impact Power for nearly 100,000

After heavy storms began on January 4 resulting in extensive damage to electrical infrastructure and power outages for nearly 100,000 PG&E customers in Northern California,  the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) stepped in to assist a friend in need.

On Tuesday, LADWP deployed 24 electrical workers along with support equipment and vehicles to Santa Rosa, CA to assist PG&E with restoration of their damaged power distribution facilities.

The work will include replacement of poles, cross-arms, conductors, transformers and other distribution equipment that were knocked out of service by the storm’s persistent high winds, rain and snowfall. It is unclear how long LADWP crews will be deployed to the scene, but initial plans are for crews to remain on site for 14 days.

“Emergencies can strike at any time and when times get tough we need to pitch in and help one another,” LADWP General Manager David H. Wright said. “The crews that have been dispatched to Santa Rosa will be missing time with their families in order to assist those in need. I am grateful to have staff that is willing to readily make this sacrifice in service of others.”

Costs associated with the effort will be reimbursed by PG&E per the California Utilities Emergency Association (CUEA) Mutual Aid Agreement of which LADWP is a member.