The Edison Electric Institute (EEI) presented Cleco Power with the Emergency Response Award for efforts to restore power following the April 10, 2024 tornadoes across Louisiana.

Sixteen tornadoes developed in Louisiana due to a severe weather system that spanned the state, according to the National Weather Service. At its peak, 44,500 Cleco customers experienced power outages. Areas hit particularly hard in Cleco’s service territory included St. Tammany Parish and St. Landry Parish.

The multi-day restoration event included bringing in 450 outside contractor line mechanics and vegetation specialists to assist Cleco personnel and repairing or replacing 608 damaged crossarms, 197 damaged poles and 176 damaged transformers.

Presented to EEI member companies twice a year, the Emergency Response Award recognizes recovery and assistance efforts of electric companies following service disruptions caused by extreme weather or other natural events. Cleco was chosen by a panel of judges following an international nomination process.

EEI has recognized Cleco with 28 awards since the program’s inception in 1998, earning 17 Emergency Response Awards and 11 Emergency Assistance Awards.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by EEI once again, and I’m grateful to work with such a wonderful team that makes sure we continue to provide safe and reliable power to our customers,” said Bill Fontenot, president & CEO of Cleco Corporate Holdings LLC.

“I would like to thank EEI for this award that recognizes our team at Cleco for the dedication they show time and time again,” said Andre Guillory, chief customer officer of Cleco Power. “Louisiana has unpredictable weather and the tornadoes in April provided a challenge, but our team is one of the best in the business and faces any challenge head on to make sure our customers get the service they deserve.”

“America’s electric companies work around the clock to restore power following severe storms and other extreme weather events,” said EEI President and CEO Dan Brouillette. “Cleco’s commitment to restoring power in a safe, efficient manner to the communities it serves following the April tornadoes is admirable. Cleco and its storm response team are extremely deserving of this well-earned recovery award.”