Hurricane season 2024 is in full swing, and, as always, GVEC is prepared to respond effectively. We confidently convey this due to our comprehensive emergency planning that ensures a swift and safe restoration of power during storms. Our past experiences with severe weather have taught us invaluable lessons, consistently making us stronger and more resilient.
As a cooperative, we stand ready to help those in need, from our customers to our fellow cooperatives. Earlier this year, GVEC crews assisted Trinity Valley Electric Cooperative with restoration efforts after a damaging storm hit their area. In July, GVEC was able to send 18 lineman volunteers and 10 bucket trucks to Kirbyville after Hurricane Beryl to assist Jasper-Newton Electric Cooperative in restoring power to their members. Neighbors helping neighbors is the cooperative way and I appreciate each of these GVEC team members for stepping up when help was needed. I am proud to report that GVEC was able to help repair and replace several downed poles and thousands of feet of wire to support the restoration of over 6,500 members without power.
Planning and Preparedness
Last month, I mentioned GVEC’s ongoing commitment to adhering to agency standards to ensure the reliability and stability of electric power for our members. Among these requirements from the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and ERCOT is the mandate to conduct semi-annual tabletop exercises and drills to fine-tune our procedures and maintain system integrity.
GVEC’s tabletop exercises involve our entire team to ensure everyone is familiar with their role in diligently following the detailed procedures of the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). The exercise also addresses various scenarios to guide our proactive and reactive recovery efforts in the event of natural or man-made disasters. We also follow local, state, and national agencies closely to gather accurate news and weather information. This collaboration enables us to make informed decisions to prepare and respond quickly, safely and efficiently.
Always Ready
Member awareness and preparedness are always a priority for us, and we have several ways to ensure timely and relevant communication. Follow our social media channels to stay informed about weather conditions and outage updates. Use your MyGVEC app (formerly SmartHub® ) or TextPower™ services to stay connected, report outages, and receive status updates as well.
Be sure you’re ready to easily utilize your options and minimize response times by keeping your account information up to date. Updating contact information can be done through MyGVEC, by contacting our customer service at 800.223.4832, or by chatting with us live at gvec.org.
Rest assured, GVEC is prepared and will be at your service when and where we are needed. Feel free to contact me any time at 830.857.1152,dschauer@gvec.org, or P.O. Box 118, Gonzales, Texas 78629.
