With the threat of severe weather always a possibility, power outages can happen, often caused by lightning, strong winds, animals, or falling tree limbs. In fact, around 75% of outages are linked to those types of events.

That’s why, since 2023, CHELCO has invested in new technology that helps reduce outages and gets power back on faster when they do occur.

One tool we’re using is called a TripSaver. It replaces the traditional fuse that many electric lines use. A typical fuse works a lot like the ones in your home—it shuts off power when something goes wrong to keep things safe. But once that fuse blows, the power stays off until a crew can arrive, figure out the issue, and make repairs.

TripSavers work differently—and smarter. By the end of 2025, CHELCO plans to have installed more than 60 of these high-tech devices across our system. Here’s how they help:

Faster response

When a temporary problem happens, like a tree branch brushing against the line or a squirrel making contact, the TripSaver can tell when the issue has cleared up and automatically turn the power back on—usually in just a few seconds.

Smarter isolation

If there’s a bigger issue, like a tree that’s fallen and is still blocking the line, the TripSaver keeps the problem from spreading. It cuts power only to the affected area, so fewer people lose electricity.

Better troubleshooting
These devices also help our crews quickly pinpoint where the problem is and what caused it, so they can make repairs faster and more safely.

TripSavers are just one more way we’re working to provide reliable power to our members—no matter what the weather brings.