On Tuesday evening, around 1,300 Santa Rosa customers experienced a power outage due to enhanced power line safety technology. The technology, known as EPSS (Electronic Performance Support Systems), triggered automatic outages on affected lines when potential hazards were detected. It was activated in May and will continue to protect the lines from wildfire risks until November.
Although the systems shut off power, crews were able to restore it within about two hours. After patrolling the lines in question, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) did not find any hazards. This is not uncommon since hazards are sometimes cleared before patrols take place. However, an underground switch at PG&E malfunctioned at around the same time, affecting the electricity supply to Graton Resort and Casino outside Rohnert Park.
Fortunately, the casino was able to switch to a generator and avoid a power interruption. Megan McFarland, a spokesperson for PG&E, explained that the switch is responsible for managing voltage fluctuations on the circuit serving the casino property. Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the switch issue. Repairs are scheduled for Wednesday night with ongoing monitoring of the circuit to ensure smooth operation in the future.
For further information regarding this incident or other PG&E-related matters, please contact Staff Writer Madison Smalstig at [madison.smalstig@pressdemocrat.com](mailto:madison.smalstig@pressdemocrat.com) or on Twitter @madi_smals.
