Lessons Learned: Restoring an Aerial Fiber Optic Broadband Plant Network After Hurricane Helene

Abstract Description: – Following Hurricane / Tropical Storm Helene Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative, Inc., Lexington, SC, had over 97% of 60,656 electric meters without service and no idea the extent of damage to the hybrid utility / service provider fiber optic plant network. On day fourteen the last electric meter was returned to service. From day one the fiber optic team was at work restoring the plant with an initial focus on core route transport and utility operational services. With the aerial fiber optic plant, on many routes it was first necessary to replace many of the 550+ broken poles. This presentation will dive into the details of restoring core transport, utility services, and finally all subscriber services.