Power fails during switch installation
This morning’s power outage to 1,470 downtown customers
This morning’s power outage to 1,470 downtown customers was triggered when ATCO Electric Yukon attempted to install a new high-voltage switch at the Selkirk substation.
“When the equipment was installed, it caused the unplanned outage,” says a statement issued by ATCO shortly before noon.
“The switch has since been removed from the system and ATCO Electric Yukon will be completing a full inspection and further testing of the equipment before attempting to install the piece of equipment again.”
Power was lost at 10:37 a.m. to customers in the south downtown area, from the SS Klondike to the Real Canadian Superstore.
Initial restoration began at 11:20 and all power was back on at 11:43, ATCO reports.
Some businesses couldn’t immedately reopen as they were awaiting the restoration of Internet services to function.
ATCO communication officer Stephanie Cunha said the company understands how disruptive a power outage can be, and offers its sincerest apology.
Comments (3)
Up 14 Down 1
Groucho d'North on Sep 20, 2017 at 10:28 am
I'll say it again, ATCO and YEC should compensate ratepayers with electronic equipment damaged by faults with their electrical service. Brown-outs and current wandering from the required 60Hz are common and cause damage to our expensive computer and home electronics. The service providers keep cranking up the cost of their service but we consumers see no additional value. If that is to be the case in the future, at least make good on the damage your system causes.
Up 32 Down 0
Bobby M on Sep 15, 2017 at 10:33 pm
What's more damaging to the economy? These nearly monthly power outages, or a once per year fiber cut? Maybe we should think about power redundancy before internet.
Up 37 Down 4
Laura Schumann on Sep 15, 2017 at 3:37 pm
ATCO - your sincere apology is not enough. Explain why you increase the power
rate and provide only lousy service !!! Excellent consumer rip-off.