CHARLESTON, W.Va., Sept. 15, 2026 – Appalachian Power Company (APCo) was named a recipient of the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) Emergency Recovery Award for its restoration work following Winter Storm Fern, which brought severe winter weather to 57 counties across the company’s service territory earlier this year.
The award is presented annually to EEI member companies for their response to service disruptions caused by extreme weather or other natural events. This marks the fourth time since 2021 that APCo has received an EEI Emergency Recovery Award.
“This award belongs to the employees, contractors and assisting crews who show up for our customers and communities when they need us most,” said Jason Baker, Appalachian Power vice president, distribution region operations. “Over the last few years, we have worked hard to strengthen how we prepare for and respond to natural disasters, and recognitions like this show that work is making a difference. I am proud of the progress we have made, but even prouder of the people whose dedication, skill and commitment make it possible.”
Winter Storm Fern swept across APCo’s three-state service territory Jan. 24-27, bringing heavy wet snow, sleet, freezing rain, ice, high winds and dangerous cold. It caused 76,306 customer outages and damaged more than 44 miles of distribution line, 185 poles, 91 transformers and hundreds of distribution feeders. More than 2,300 workers were in place before impact, and roughly 3,000 field workers supported assessment and restoration as the event unfolded.
“When severe weather strikes, our member companies mobilize around the clock to restore power safely and as quickly as possible for the customers they serve,” said Drew Maloney, president and CEO of EEI. “EEI is proud to recognize Appalachian Power with the Emergency Recovery Award for its outstanding response following Winter Storm Fern. This honor reflects the skill and determination of Appalachian Power’s workforce, who prepare year-round—practicing, planning, and investing in resilience—so they’re ready to face the toughest conditions and get the lights back on for communities who depend on them.”