Summer storms, accompanied by heavy wind and lightning, are major causes of power outages. However, there are many other causes of power outages that can strike at unexpected times. Animals, underground cable failures, trees and vegetation are a few of Dakota Electric’s top causes for unplanned power outages (page 3). 

My power is out. Now what?

Before calling Dakota Electric to report an outage, first check to see if your home’s circuit panel or fuse box has tripped or blown a fuse. This can also cause a power failure. If tripped, reset the breaker or replace the blown fuse. If the power is out in your entire neighborhood, call Dakota Electric’s 24/7 year-round emergency line at 651-463-6201 or visit www.DakotaElectric.com > Power Outage to report your outage.

Make sure we have your correct phone number on file. Both our online and automated phone reporting systems use the phone number associated with your account to locate your residence during an outage. Update your number by calling member services at 651-463-6212 or visiting www.DakotaElectric.com > Power Outages. Click on Update it now.

Knowing when your power will be restored is a bit tricky. 

We know members want to know why the lights are out and when they’re coming back on. However, determining the cause of a power outage can take time. Sometimes it’s apparent why the power is out, such as during a big storm. Other times we won’t know until the problem is investigated. 

Statistically, members experience only one power outage every 3.5 years, and for those that do, their power is out an average of 65 minutes. Many factors determine how long it will take to restore power, and it’s impossible to know for sure until we identify the cause. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter for outage news. We generally post updates for larger outages.

As always, Dakota Electric staff and crews appreciate everyone’s patience. We understand that power outages are an inconvenience to our members. Our number one goal at that time is to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.

And of course, stay away from downed lines. Always assume a downed power line is energized and dangerous. Keep people and pets away until crews arrive and tell you it is safe.