Edison International Provides Latest Update on Southern California Wildfires and SCE Power Outages
ROSEMEAD, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Powerful winds and several dangerous wildfires continue to create life-threatening conditions in parts of Southern California.
Edison International and Southern California Edison (SCE) extend their thoughts to everyone impacted by this devastating event, and offer immense gratitude to firefighters, public safety officials and all the utility workers supporting customers in California.
Since Jan. 7, SCE has restored more than 500,000 customers ‒ more than 90% of the outages – with 62,662 customers currently without power as of 5:30 a.m. on Jan. 12. Severe equipment damage and access restrictions in areas impacted by wildfire may lead to restoration times taking longer than usual, from several days to, in some instances, weeks. Thousands of SCE employees and contractors are working alongside mutual assistance crews 24/7 to restore power.
SCE filed two Electric Safety Incident Reports (ESIR) related to current wildfires, one for the Eaton Fire and another for the Hurst Fire. ESIRs are filed with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for incidents that meet certain criteria, such as significant media attention or a governmental investigation. These brief reports contain preliminary information and are provided within two to four hours after a triggering event. To comply with CPUC requirements, these reports are often submitted before SCE can determine whether its electric facilities are associated with an ignition.
Eaton Fire
On Jan. 9, SCE filed an ESIR related to the Eaton Fire, as the incident may have met the reporting requirement, such as significant media attention and property damage exceeding $200,000. Additionally, SCE received evidence preservation notices from counsel representing insurance companies in connection with the fire. SCE conducted preliminary analysis of electrical circuit information for the four energized transmission lines in the Eaton Canyon area. That analysis shows no interruptions or operational/electrical anomalies in the 12 hours prior to the fire’s reported start time until more than one hour after the reported start time of the fire. Aside from the preservation notices suggesting SCE’s potential involvement and media attention surrounding the fire, SCE would not have filed an ESIR.
Hurst Fire
On Jan. 10, SCE filed an ESIR related to the Hurst Fire once SCE learned fire agencies are investigating whether SCE equipment was involved in the ignition, which is a triggering event for reporting. SCE noted that the fire was reported at approximately 10:10 p.m. on Jan. 7, and preliminary information reflects the Eagle Rock – Sylmar 220 kV circuit experienced a relay at 10:11 p.m. A downed powerline was discovered at a tower associated with the Eagle Rock – Sylmar 220 kV circuit. SCE does not know whether the damage observed occurred before or after the start of the fire.
Wildfire Relief Efforts
To support communities affected by the wildfires, Edison International announced a financial contribution of $1 million to community-based organizations to support relief efforts and assist those affected by the wildfires. The contribution, funded through the foundation and direct giving, will begin with $350,000, including $150,000 to the American Red Cross; up to $100,000 to match employee contributions to three local nonprofits – Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, Pasadena Humane and YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles; and $100,000 to America’s Charities to assist employees impacted by the wildfires.
“We are proud to support nonprofits that provide critical services to our customers and employees, and we are grateful for the contributions from other Southern California companies who have stepped up to support our communities during this difficult time,” said Pedro J. Pizarro, president and CEO of Edison International. “Their collective efforts demonstrate the strength and resilience of our region, and we are honored to stand alongside them in providing aid and support to those in need.”
Power Restoration
“We greatly appreciate the dedicated efforts of SCE’s employees and the mutual assistance colleagues who are working around the clock to support our communities during this challenging time,” said Steven D. Powell, president and CEO of SCE. “Their unwavering commitment and hard work are truly commendable.”
The extreme weather continues to be a rapidly evolving situation. While wind conditions have improved, dangerous weather is expected through Jan. 15 in some areas. Safety remains the company’s top priority for customers, communities and employees. Some customers may be de-energized this weekend and into the coming week, either from a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), strong winds, wildfires or other conditions. SCE will restore service as quickly as it is safe to do so. Crews patrolling lines that were de-energized through PSPS have found damage indicating PSPS has already been valuable in protecting communities during this windstorm.
About Edison International
Edison International (NYSE: EIX) is one of the nation’s largest electric utility holding companies, focused on providing clean and reliable energy and energy services through its independent companies. Headquartered in Rosemead, California, Edison International is the parent company of Southern California Edison Company, a utility delivering electricity to 15 million people across Southern, Central and Coastal California. Edison International is also the parent company of Trio (formerly Edison Energy), a portfolio of nonregulated competitive businesses providing integrated sustainability and energy advisory services to large commercial, industrial and institutional organizations in North America and Europe.
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Investor Relations: Sam Ramraj, (626) 302-2540
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KEYWORDS: United States North America California
INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Public Policy/Government Public Safety State/Local Other Energy Utilities Energy
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