East Montpelier, Vt: Washington Electric Co-op (WEC), a member-owned utility serving central Vermont, has released its first round of COVID-19 response plans. WEC is taking steps to reduce any risk of infection among its workforce. In an emergency, particularly a health emergency, it is critical for electric utilities to be able to provide reliable electric service and support.
“Our paramount goal is to assure the health and safety of the WEC workforce,” said General Manager Patty Richards. “We need to be able to restore power, especially during a pandemic.”
Following recommendations from the World Health Organization, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities, WEC took immediate steps to:
• Close the office and warehouse to the general public
• Eliminate non-essential work travel
• Increase office cleaning and disinfecting
• Implement social distancing within buildings
• Request employees limit personal travel to within Vermont
Members may continue to contact WEC by phone or email with any questions related to electric service. Staff are onsite and are available to support members, but the office is closed. Essential in-person meetings may be made by appointment only; all other meetings are to take place virtually.
WEC asks the general public to avoid any contact with staff working on power lines or out in the field.
WEC is working closely with state officials, the Department of Health and other utilities on a more detailed action plan. The point contact for all questions and issues related to WEC’s COVID-19 response is General Manager Patty Richards.
Washington Electric Co-op is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric utility founded in 1939. WEC serves approximately 10,800 member-owners in 41 towns throughout Washington, Orange, Caledonia and Orleans counties with power generated from 100 percent renewable sources. WEC is an equal opportunity provider and employer. For more information please visit washingtonelectric.coop or call 802-223-5245.