When storms strike or accidents happen, the lights can go out in an instant. For decades, that meant waiting - sometimes for hours - while crews located the problem and restored power. But what if power could be restored with the touch of a button? Thanks to cutting-edge Distribution Automation technology, that's no longer a dream - it's happening now on our system. 
What is Distribution Automation? Think of it as "smart switching." When trouble hits, DA devices instantly detect the problem. Our lineworkers can then analyze the system and reroute electricity from a neighboring substation before leaving the shop to find the problem. Instead of hundreds of members sitting in the dark, power can be restored to a majority of members without waiting for a truck to roll.
Why it matters: DA isn't just a convenience - it's a game-changer for reliability and safety. Crews can focus on permanent repairs without the pressure of restoring service immediately. 
Picture this: A wintry storm knocks out power near Rockford. With Distribution Automation, electricity can be rerouted from Spencerville in a short period, keeping you warm and cozy in your home. Or if Coldwater goes down, Macedon or Chickasaw can backfeed power until repairs are completed. Distribution Automation offers greater flexibility, increased resilience, and added peace of mind for our members.
And this is just the beginning. As we continue to add more reclosers and upgrade equipment, DA will keep more lights on during storms, accidents, and other unexpected events. These improvements are transforming the way we restore power, making it faster, safer, and more reliable for you.