April 29, 2015 – The Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) recently announced the signing of a national mutual assistance agreement by Canadian electric utilities.

The agreement provides a mechanism for Canadian electricity industry companies to assist each other during emergencies. It covers assistance in all types of emergencies including those caused by storms, natural disasters, equipment failures, or willful damage. This assistance could include personnel support, equipment and consumable supplies, or other services, CEA stated.

“The practice of utilities providing reciprocal support in the event of major power outages stretches back decades,” said Sergio Marchi, CEA’s president and CEO. “However, recent major events such as Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and the Alberta floods and Toronto ice storm of 2013 have underscored the need for multilateral support systems. CEA recognized that national coordination was needed and is honoured to serve as Custodian to this important agreement.”

Under the agreement, parties will provide assistance on a not-for-profit basis with requesting companies reimbursing responding companies for all expenses incurred in providing the assistance.