SCE outlines new notification platform to address power outage communication issues

Residents of Villa Park voiced their frustrations over power outages during the Southern California Edison Town Hall meeting on March 13, 2025. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding communication and reliability of power services, particularly during Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events.

One resident expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of timely notifications about power shutoffs, recounting a recent experience where he was unaware of an impending outage while shopping. "It shouldn't be that hard to get those notifications out," he stated, emphasizing the need for improvement in communication from Edison. In response, Edison representatives acknowledged existing gaps in their notification system and announced plans to implement a new platform in the coming months to enhance communication during outages.

The discussion also revealed a growing trend among residents who are losing faith in Edison’s reliability. One long-time resident shared that his neighborhood has experienced multiple outages, totaling nearly a week without power in January alone. He noted that many neighbors are investing in backup generators, indicating a shift towards self-reliance due to ongoing power issues. "People have given up on Edison," he lamented, urging the company to provide clear timelines for resolving these persistent problems.

Edison representatives recognized the community's frustrations, stating that they are committed to improving their services and ensuring safety during wildfire risks. They acknowledged the challenges posed by changing weather conditions and the need for better communication regarding potential outages.

As the meeting concluded, residents left with a mix of hope for improvements and lingering concerns about the reliability of their power service. The commitment to better communication and infrastructure upgrades will be closely watched as the community seeks answers to their ongoing power challenges.