The Salem Electric Department has received national recognition for its ability to keep the city’s lights on even when unexpected weather events happen. The recognition for exceptional electrical reliability for the 2025 calendar year comes from the American Public Power Association (APPA), a trade group that represents more than 2,000 community-owned electric utilities.
Salem’s interruption time has averaged just over 10 minutes for non-emergency events. For comparison, the national average is nearly 14 times greater at 139 minutes.
“Our employees take a great deal of pride in their work, especially when it comes to restoring power, so receiving this honor for taking care of our homeowners and businesses in the City of Salem is very humbling and satisfying,” said Kevin Divers, Salem Electric Department interim director. “Despite some often-adverse weather conditions that are out of our control, our skilled workers continue to get the job done, and I am honored to accept this award on their behalf.”
The City of Salem is one of 16 municipalities in the Commonwealth that operates its own electric department, and Salem is one of just five in Virginia to receive this award. The other four are Bristol, Harrisonburg, Martinsville and Front Royal.
APPA helps electric utilities track power outage and restoration data through its subscription-based PowerTRX Reliability service. Once per year, APPA’s Reliability Team compares this data to national statistics tracked by the U.S. Energy Information Administration for all types of electric utilities.
“I am continually inspired by the unwavering commitment of public power utilities to delivering reliable service to their communities,” said Adrienne Lotto, senior vice president of grid security, operations, and technical Services. “The utilities honored here have set the standard for excellence and dedication, ensuring that families and businesses can count on their local power providers every day. Congratulations to these outstanding teams for earning this well-deserved recognition and for making a positive difference where it matters most.”
Salem’s System Average Interruption Duration Index figure places the utility company in the top 25 percent in the nation.
-The Salem Times-Register
