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The 5 Critical Steps RI Energy Is Taking To Fix Power Outages Now: A Deep Dive Into The 2025 Grid Overhaul

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Rhode Island Energy (RIE), the largest electric and natural gas distribution provider in the state, is under intense scrutiny from customers and regulators as major storm events continue to test the resilience of the grid. As of today, December 19, 2025, while current outages are minimal, the focus remains on the utility's long-term plan to prevent the massive power losses seen during recent winter storms, such as the major event in February 2024 that impacted over 60,000 customers.

The core of the issue centers on grid reliability and energy resilience—the ability of the electrical system to withstand and quickly recover from severe, unpredictable weather events. Rhode Island Energy, owned by PPL Corporation, is now executing multi-year plans, including the ambitious Grid Modernization initiative, to fortify the infrastructure against future outages and ensure steady service for communities across Providence County and Washington County.

Key Profile: J. Gregory Cornett, President of Rhode Island Energy

To understand the utility's response and future direction, it is vital to know the leadership at the helm. J. Gregory "Greg" Cornett is the President of Rhode Island Energy, overseeing the company’s electric transmission, distribution, and natural gas distribution operations.

  • Role: President of Rhode Island Energy.
  • Experience: A seasoned utility industry veteran with 25 years of experience in the sector.
  • Appointment: Named President in March 2024, succeeding Dave Bonenberger.
  • Leadership Focus: Supervises all operations related to both natural gas and electricity delivery, emphasizing a commitment to leading Rhode Island Energy into the future.
  • Key Staff: Works alongside Chief Operating Officer (COO) Alan LaBarre.

Cornett's leadership has been central to the company's response to recent outages and its proposed long-term infrastructure improvements, including the Electric Infrastructure, Safety, and Reliability Plan (ISR Plan) filed with the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC).

The 5 Pillars of RI Energy's 2025 Grid Resilience Overhaul

Following a period of increased scrutiny over system reliability, Rhode Island Energy has committed to several key initiatives aimed at significantly reducing the frequency and duration of power outages. These plans represent the most current and unique information regarding the utility's future direction, focusing on proactive investment rather than reactive repairs after a storm.

1. The Electric Infrastructure, Safety, and Reliability (ISR) Plan

The proposed FY 2025 ISR Plan is the cornerstone of RI Energy’s strategy to upgrade its physical assets. This plan focuses on targeted investments to replace aging equipment, reinforce transmission lines, and improve safety across the network. The goal is to build a more robust system that can better withstand severe weather events, which are increasingly common.

2. Grid Modernization and Advanced Technology

A major component of the 2024-2026 System Reliability Procurement (SRP) Three-Year Plan is the implementation of advanced technologies for Grid Modernization. This includes deploying smart grid sensors and automated switching devices that can detect outages and reroute power automatically, often restoring service in minutes rather than hours. This technology is crucial for improving the Estimated Restoration Time (ERT) during widespread events.

3. Strategic Energy Storage Deployment

Rhode Island is charting a bold path for energy storage, and RI Energy is a key player in this transition. The deployment of energy storage systems is a pivotal tool for improving grid reliability and resilience. These systems can store excess power and release it during peak hours or after an outage, effectively acting as a backup power source to minimize disruption and maintain steady service.

4. Proactive Vegetation Management

A leading cause of power outages, particularly during high-wind and rain events, is tree contact with power lines. RI Energy continues to invest heavily in proactive vegetation management programs. By aggressively trimming and removing hazardous trees near power lines, the company aims to reduce the number of downed power lines and prevent outages before they occur, a critical step in storm preparedness.

5. Enhanced Storm Response and Communication Protocols

In response to regulatory requirements following major storm events, such as the February 2024 storm that necessitated a formal report to the RIPUC, RI Energy has refined its emergency response operations. This includes securing additional crews and personnel ahead of forecasted storms, improving the accuracy of the real-time Outage Map, and providing clearer, more frequent updates on restoration times to affected customers.

What Customers Must Know: Reporting and Preparedness

While RI Energy implements its multi-year plans, customers play a vital role in managing their own safety and assisting with the restoration process. Knowing how to report an outage and taking proactive storm-ready steps are essential for energy resilience at the household level.

How to Report a Power Outage to RI Energy

The fastest way to initiate a repair request and receive updates is through the official channels. Do not assume your neighbor has reported the outage.

  • Online: Use the Rhode Island Energy Outage Center or their dedicated outage map to report and track the status of your service loss.
  • By Phone: Customers should have the RI Energy contact number saved for quick reporting.
  • Safety First: Always report a downed power line immediately by calling 911, and then notify RI Energy. Never approach or touch a downed line.

Essential Storm Preparedness Checklist

President Greg Cornett and RI Energy frequently advise customers to be prepared, especially before a predicted winter storm or hurricane season.

  • Secure Outdoor Items: Tie down or put away anything that could become airborne and damage electrical equipment, such as patio furniture or trampolines.
  • Emergency Kit: Maintain a well-stocked kit with flashlights, fresh batteries, a battery-powered radio, non-perishable food, and water.
  • Charge Devices: Fully charge all cell phones, laptops, and portable power banks well in advance of a storm.
  • Generator Safety: If you use a portable generator, ensure it is operated outdoors in a well-ventilated area, far from windows and doors, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

The journey toward a completely resilient electrical grid is ongoing, but with the new 2025 Electric ISR Plan and the focus on Grid Modernization, Rhode Island Energy is demonstrating a clear commitment to tackling the root causes of power outages. By understanding these initiatives and taking personal preparedness steps, Rhode Island residents can navigate future storm events with greater confidence and safety.

The 5 Critical Steps RI Energy is Taking to Fix Power Outages Now: A Deep Dive into the 2025 Grid Overhaul
ri energy power outage
ri energy power outage

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