ENERGYUNITED MOVES FULL CONTINGENT OF RESOURCES INTO HARDEST HIT AREAS

STATESVILLE, N.C. – EnergyUnited has combined all resources on remaining power outages, as the cooperative enters the fourth day of restoration efforts following the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene. Members remaining without power can expect to have power restored by Tuesday, October 1 at 11 p.m., or sooner.  

The cooperative has deployed all 300 field workers, including linemen and tree trimming specialists, to restore power in the hardest hit areas. Crews have faced challenging conditions, particularly in areas with collapsed roads or locations that are impassable or inaccessible by bucket truck or with specialized equipment. In these locations, linemen are climbing poles, digging holes, cutting through debris and using manual processes to ensure power is restored as safely and efficiently as possible. 

“We understand how difficult it is to be without power. We care about our members and apologize for the hardships the storm has caused,” said Steve McCachern, vice president of energy delivery. “Our full contingent of resources are working continuously to restore power to all members. We appreciate our members’ patience as these remaining repairs are completed.”

Since the storm, the cooperative has identified 150 broken poles and replaced 130 so far, with approximately 20 poles remaining.

Members who are without power can locate estimated restoration times on the cooperative’s outage map. Current estimates are also outlined by county in the table below.  

Important Safety Reminders:
 

Stay away from downed power lines: Always assume any downed line is energized and dangerous. Report these sightings immediately to EnergyUnited or local emergency services.  

Stay clear of utility crews and work zones: As our crews work to restore power, it’s important for everyone to keep a safe distance from work areas. This ensures the safety of our workers and members. Please avoid approaching crews or entering zones marked for repairs.  

Avoid flooded areas: Do not walk through standing water near electrical equipment, as it could present an electrocution hazard. Stay clear of any flooded areas around EnergyUnited’s equipment.  

Use generators safely: Ensure generators are placed outdoors and far from windows, doors, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring, as this can cause backfeeding, which poses serious risks to linemen and field personnel. 
 

About EnergyUnited   EnergyUnited Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) is the largest electric cooperative in North Carolina with 141,540 member connections. Headquartered in Statesville, EnergyUnited provides electric service in portions of 19 counties in west central North Carolina which include Alexander, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Randolph, Rockingham, Rowan, Stokes, Wilkes and Yadkin. Visit energyunited.com to learn more about the cooperative’s energy services and community programs. 

EnergyUnited has deployed 300 field workers to restore power to members in the hardest hit areas. 

Crews are encountering fallen trees, spans of downed power lines and impassable roads. 

Crews are facing challenging conditions in areas that are impassable or inaccessible by bucket truck or with specialized equipment.