Cabarrus Today

The City of Concord Electric Systems has been honored with a national commendation from the American Public Power Association (APPA) for its instrumental role in restoring electric power in Gastonia, N.C. This recognition comes after six crew members were dispatched to assist the City of Gastonia Utilities between May 9-11, 2024, following severe storms and two confirmed EF1 tornadoes that caused power outages across Gaston County.

At the height of the disaster, approximately 45% of Gaston County was without power. The Concord Electric Systems crew, comprising lineworkers Chandler Rice, Jason Sartain, Zach Gobble, Chris Aldridge, Clay Vaughn, and Triston Langston, worked tirelessly over three days to replace broken poles and repair damaged lines.

Alex Burris, Director of Concord Electric Systems highlighted the significance of mutual aid in such situations. He stated: “Mutual aid is at the heart of what it means to be a community owned, public power provider. We come together and join forces to help rebuild communities. We are always the first to answer the call to get the power back on, whether it’s in our own city or a neighboring town. I’m extremely proud of the team that went to Gastonia and answered that call.”

As part of ElectriCities of North Carolina and APPA membership, the City of Concord participates in a mutual aid network that coordinates with utilities and authorities during widespread power outages.

Since its establishment in 1904, The City of Concord Electric Systems has been committed to providing reliable power and superior service. Currently employing over 80 staff members who operate more than 1,700 miles of distribution lines and 21 substations, they serve over 34,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers.