Transmission & Distribution:

When a major storm is predicted, regardless of the season, TMLP staff step up and get ready for whatever comes their way. They're prepared and confident that their ongoing preventative maintenance program will play a major role in any clean-up and restoration efforts. While October's storm Sandy left TMLP customers relatively unscathed, those who were without power or internet had their service restored within hours, something that customers of investor-owned utilities did not enjoy. TMLP was also ready to lend a hand through the mutual aid system which had been activated. The mutual aid system has been getting more use due to the multiple winter storms and active hurricane seasons during the past years.

TMLP proactively works throughout the year to improve reliability by maintaining the system, scanning the primary and secondary lines for potential problems and making upgrades to ensure that all of the transmission and distribution processes are not only up to date, but can - and will - enable TMLP to meet the needs of the future. During 2012, TMLP line crews upgraded lines in several areas within the 100-square mile service territory, upgraded transformers at Station 3, and replaced and upgraded circuit switches at Station 16.

The year also included a new website feature that allows TMLP customers to gather real-time information about power interruptions and outages when they occur. This website outage management tool keeps TMLP customers aware of where the problem areas are and when they may expect service to be restored.

The future of TMLP and its Transmission and Distribution system looks a little brighter - literally - with the addition of six megawatts of solar generation added to TMLP's solar purchase power agreements and incorporating LED lighting into street lighting during 2012.

Internet Services Group and Special Projects:

TMLP's Internet Services Group (ISG) and Special Projects was involved in commencing several major projects throughout 2012, including the development of a next-generation wireless beta trial to include provisions for smart-grid, public safety and potential broadband applications. This system will enhance the department's service by providing new technology to benefit retail and municipal internet customers.

A significant project which has been ongoing for several years, the West Water Street remediation and phase I renovation, was completed in 2012. The building was decommissioned and readied for the eventual occupancy as an additional location for ISG and its operations to accommodate future expansion capabilities and technological advancements. The location will also provide ISG with the capability to independently operate the servers at each location to minimize any downtime to internet customers.

A major upgrade to the network core and backbone infrastructure was also undertaken in 2012 which will increase bandwidth to internet customers and provide them with more security for information and transactions. TMLP also initiated the upgrade of its IT head-end server assets in a move towards virtualization for improving efficiency and fault-tolerance.

The ISG staff was also involved in the redesign and update of the TMLP website and successfully launched the site which seamlessly transitions between TMLP operations and TMLP electric and internet customers.

Energy Supply & Planning:

As part of TMLP's Strategic Planning Initiative and operating strategy goals, Energy Supply & Planning monitors the available energy supply and demand to ensure that the department provides a diversified, cost-competitive, environmentally-responsible, reliable and sustainable power supply for years to come. In keeping with that plan, TMLP's Operations & Maintenance (O&M) costs associated with energy projects, including clean energy, were reduced at year's end.

During 2012, TMLP's Energy Supply and Planning staff further secured the future of the department's clean energy portfolio by promoting and negotiating solar power contracts. Residential customers and commercial customers alike continued to invest in renewable energy technologies and lessen the load on the system by embracing the opportunity to harness solar energy, offsetting demand and reducing future costs for all customers. As a result, fifteen solar net metering agreements accounted for a total connected load of 767.3 kilowatts, and two solar purchased power agreements accounted for a total connected supply of six megawatts.

The interruptible rate schedule for those large commercial customers, who operate seasonal facilities or facilities that are only used occasionally, were responsible for saving six customers a total of $260,872 in 2012. These 31i rate customers were instrumental in allowing TMLP to manage loads during high peak times.

TMLP Energy Supply and Planning staff also secured a new service agreement rate for its natural gas pipeline, as well as a new partner for natural gas acquisition. The staff also continued working on the distributed generation plan for potential implementation in the near future.