This month I wanted to address a few of the questions that many members have been asking following the historic power failures in Texas last month. The issues and solutions for their situation are complicated, but that doesn’t mean you need to be worried about power and reliability here in Southern Indiana. Here are a few answers to some common questions we’ve heard this month:

Could mass power outages occur here as a result of extreme weather conditions, similar to what Texas experienced?

Yes, but it’s not likely to happen. Unlike Texas, our power system is under heavy regulation that requires weatherization. Our power grid is also connected to many other states, meaning we can pull in power from neighbors in the event of a widespread power outage. 

How does Clark County REMC prepare for the potential impact of extreme weather?

Like many other Midwest utilities, our equipment is designed to operate smoothly in extreme weather. Heat tracing and insulation help prepare equipment for winter conditions while ventilation and cooling practices are implemented in summer months.

Could Clark County REMC consumers see bills as high as what some Texans have reported?

No. Unlike Texas, whose energy prices were open to large swings due to their variable pricing model, we have long-term, stable contracts with our power supplier, Hoosier Energy, to keep the price you pay as predictable and stable as possible.

We know that few events are as unsettling and concerning for a family or business than a power outage. Know that we are committed to providing reliable, affordable electricity, and to being ready to meet the challenges that Mother Nature brings.