The men and women who work around the clock to keep the lights on for all Alabamians serve on the frontlines of our nation’s energy needs. On April 18, the Energy Institute of Alabama (EIA) will celebrate these workers who work in challenging and often dangerous conditions to keep the lights on.
The EIA and representatives of its members, including the Alabama Rural Electric Association (AREA), Alabama Power, the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority, the Electric Cities of Alabama, PowerSouth Energy Cooperative and Tennessee Valley Authority, will gather along with elected officials to honor them as part of the National Lineworker Appreciation Day at Dixie Electric Cooperative in Montgomery. The national commemoration is celebrated around the country each April.
More than 2,000 electric utility lineworkers are employed by EIA member utilities across the state. While keeping the power grid up and running is part of their everyday jobs, a lineworker’s skill and hard work are put to the test when severe weather strikes.
“Whether they’re restoring power after a major storm or maintaining critical infrastructure to our electric system, linemen are at the heart of everything we do,” says Karl Rayborn, president and CEO of AREA. “They’re ready to get the job done, day or night.”
During the week of April 18, keep an eye out for #ThankALineman on social media channels and show your appreciation for the men and women who light our lives.