Under the American Public Power Association (APPA), national mutual aid brings more than 1,100 public power utilities together to help rebuild communities devastated by natural disasters, working together to restore power. Mutual aid is utilized when local crews and equipment won’t be enough to restore power quickly and safely due to the magnitude of the situation. Specific skills, resources, equipment and materials can be requested as needed.
MMUA (Minnesota Municipal Utility Association) coordinates the mutual aid network for Minnesota municipal utility members, like SPU. Assistance is provided nationwide. Conversely, as a member, SPU would receive assistance in the event we had a major emergency and needed additional resources.
When SPU travels to assist other utilities in times of need, that utility is responsible for SPU expenses. These and other qualifying restoration expenses incurred by the utility in need can be partially reimbursed through FEMA.
Mutual aid is just one more benefit of the public power family. Utilities coming together to help others and serve our communities.