As temperatures rise across the SWEPCO service territory, preparing for extreme weather becomes a year-round priority. From blistering summer heat to bitter winter cold, SWEPCO power plant crews plan well ahead to ensure reliable power when customers need it most.
Preparation begins long before weather conditions reach critical levels.
“We follow established procedures and standard work to get our units ready for extreme cold or extreme heat,” said Ryan Stafford, energy production supervisor at Flint Creek Power Plant. “That ensures the unit is available when it’s needed.”
Planning early is central to SWEPCO’s approach. Coordination across departments, along with contractors and plant personnel, allows teams to respond quickly when temperatures spike or plunge.
“The coordination and communication between departments really embodies teamwork,” Stafford said.
At Flint Creek and across SWEPCO’s generation fleet, teams continually apply lessons learned from past extreme weather events. Improvements to critical instrumentation—such as drum level and deaerator transmitters—have strengthened weather protection and reduced risk.
Infrared cameras now monitor temperatures at vulnerable equipment, while new enclosures, insulation and heaters help prevent freezing during severe cold. These upgrades were results of lessons learned during previous extreme weather events and reflect SWEPCO’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Preparation doesn’t end when winter does. Extreme heat brings its own challenges, from protecting temperature-sensitive equipment to keeping employees safe.
“We maintain a weatherization list,” said Josh Webster, energy production supervisor and clearance coordinator. “After winter and summer, we review lessons learned, update the list, and implement improvements before those seasons return.”
Employee safety remains a top priority, especially during prolonged heat events. Water and electrolyte drinks are placed throughout the plants, and crews adjust schedules to reduce heat exposure.
“You’ve got to keep your people and your equipment safe,” said machinist Kenny Huffaker. “A lot of equipment is temperature sensitive, and transmitters can read differently when they get hot.”
Across SWEPCO’s eight power plants and two wind farms, employees share a strong sense of responsibility during extreme weather.
“I see firsthand the dedication it takes to keep our plants running safely, in full compliance, and ready when the system needs us most,” said Rick Weber, Flint Creek and Mattison Plant Manager. “Preparing for extreme heat and cold doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of months of planning, disciplined standard work, and a workforce that takes pride in doing the job the right way. Our people show up every day focused on safety, reliability, and keeping the lights on for the communities we serve.”
Together, SWEPCO plants operate as a coordinated system focused on planning ahead, strengthening equipment, and working as one team. That commitment helps stabilize electric costs and ensures customers can count on safe and reliable power—no matter what the forecast brings.