Power companies are working to mitigate wildfire risk.
Courtesy of PGE
Earlier this month, the Oregon Public Utility Commission adopted new rules on how power companies handle public safety power shutoffs. During dangerous weather conditions, power companies can proactively shut off electricity in high fire-risk areas. Shutting off power is a safety measure that can help prevent wildfires.
The companies are required to inform the public, state agencies and local jurisdictions, according to the commission. Allen Berreth is the vice president of operations at Pacific Power. Bill Messner is the director of wildfire mitigation and resiliency for Portland General Electric. They join us with details on how the companies plan to mitigate wildfire risk.
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