The MEA’s fault restoration processes worked as normal during last night’s adverse weather event. Our engineering staff and fault support teams responded to minor events at locations such as Glen Maye and Crosby. There were some isolated incidents relating to individual services to homes however, the majority of the MEA’s customers remained on supply throughout the event. Each year, the MEA employs a Winter Readiness programme to ensure that it is entirely prepared for all that the season can throw at us and this stood us in good stead during the dramatic events of the evening. It is important that we do not become complacent however; there is still a long time until the spring, and so the MEA will remain vigilant and be ready for future problems.
The MEA is extremely pleased with the resilience its networks demonstrated last night; years ago such weather would have caused extensive problems. Supply performance is measured by a figure known as Customer Minutes Lost and for unplanned events this figure is currently standing at approximately 6 minutes, a figure which is unparalleled by any of the 14 supply utilities in the UK. The performance is based on sound engineering practice and the dedication and skill of staff who respond to very difficult situations in frankly appalling conditions and we are very proud of them.
Ends
Friday 12th, November 2010 11:59pm.
