What do emergency switching operations typically address?

Emergency switching operations are specifically designed to respond to critical situations that could disrupt the continuity and safety of electric service. These operations come into play during power outages and abnormal conditions, such as equipment failures, downed lines, or other unforeseen events that require immediate action to restore service or prevent further issues.

When a power outage occurs, operators engage in emergency switching to isolate malfunctioning segments of the power system, reroute power from alternate sources, or coordinate with field teams to restore service as safely and quickly as possible. This is essential for maintaining the reliability of the electrical grid and ensuring that customers are not without power for extended periods.

Scheduled maintenance, upgrading systems, and adjusting power loads do not typically classify as emergency operations since they involve planned activities aimed at improving reliability and capacity under normal operating conditions rather than addressing urgent and unexpected situations.