Notice:

Unfortunately, our external payment systems are currently offline due to a technical issue with Spectrum. Our friendly and knowledgeable Member Service Representatives are here to assist you by phone or in person at any OTEC office. We apologize for any inconvenience and will update when the system is restored. 

Restoration Process

Outage Center > Restoration Process

Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative's restoration process focuses on safely and efficiently restoring power during outages, prioritizing critical areas first.

When electricity goes out, most of us expect power will be restored within a few hours. But when a major storm causes widespread damage, longer outages may result. Co-op line crews work long, hard hours to restore service safely to the greatest number of consumers in the shortest time possible. Here’s what’s going on if you find yourself in the dark.

Powering Up After An Outage

High-Voltage Transmission Lines

Transmission towers and cables that supply power to
transmission substations (and thousands of members)
rarely fail. But when damaged, these facilities must be
repaired before other parts of the system can operate.

Distribution Substation

A substation can serve hundreds or thousands of consumers.
When a major outage occurs, line crews inspect substations to determine if problems stem from transmission lines feeding into the substation, the substation itself or if problems exist further down the line.

Main Distribution Lines

If the problem cannot be isolated at a distribution substation, distribution lines are checked. These lines carry power to large groups of consumers in communities or housing developments.

Tap Lines

If local outages persist, supply lines (also known as tap lines) are inspected. These lines deliver power to transformers, either mounted on poles or placed on pads for underground service, outside businesses, schools and homes.

Individual Homes

If your home remains without power, the service line between a transformer and your residence may need to be repaired. Always call or text to report an outage to help line crews isolate local issue.