FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, April 18, 2025

PIE&G Completes Core Restoration After

“Storm of the Century”

Crews shift from system‑wide repairs to individual service reconnections; members may need licensed electricians before power can be re‑energized

ONAWAY, Mich. – Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co‑op (PIE&G) is pleased to announce that the main phase of power restoration following the March 29 ice storm is now complete. After replacing more than 1,470 broken poles, stringing thousands of spans of new wire, and working alongside over 400 visiting crews and 1,400 field personnel, our system is once again delivering energy to virtually all members who can safely receive it.

“Rebuilding and repairing an entire electric system, virtually every mile, in just three weeks is a testament to the skill of our crews and the resilience of Northern Michigan,” said Allan Berg, PIE&G President & CEO. “We are deeply grateful to our members for their unwavering support and patience as we worked around the clock. While the worst is behind us, we will not consider the job finished until every member’s lights are on, and every line is safe.”

What Happens Next?

  • Individual service repairs: The remaining outages involve service lines or meter masts damaged on the member’s side of the connection. State electrical code requires these repairs be completed by a licensed electrician before PIE&G can re‑energize service. If your weatherhead, meter socket, or riser conduit was pulled away from the home, please arrange repairs and then call us at 800‑423‑6634 to schedule reconnection.
  • Debris removal: With power largely restored, dedicated crews are now mobilizing to clear storm debris left along rights‑of‑ We kindly ask members not to disturb broken poles or wire so this work can proceed safely and efficiently.
  • Fiber network restoration: Specialized fiber contractors are being deployed in areas where electric service is fully restored.
  • Updates will be posted regularly at pieg.com/spring‑2025‑storm‑updates and on our Facebook page.

PIE&G extends heartfelt thanks to:

  • Local first responders and emergency managers who ensured safe access to remote sites
  • Mutual‑aid lineworkers from 11 states who brought talent and equipment to Northern Michigan
  • Area businesses, civic groups, and residents who provided meals, lodging, and words of encouragement
  • Our members, your resilience and patience, made this massive undertaking possible

“We recognize that some households are still waiting for final repairs,” added Berg. “If that’s you, please know you are our top priority. Reach out, stay safe, and we will be there as soon as your service is ready.”

Visit pieg.com/spring-2025-storm-updates for updates.

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