Graphic displays the most common causes of power outages in our area.
Graphic displays the most common causes of power outages in our area.
Even though we deliver 99.98% service reliability, power outages may still occur. View our reliability overview to learn more about power outages and what we’re doing to minimize them. As a Tampa Electric customer, you may experience:
Temporary power outages
A problem in the electric distribution system between the power plant and your home or business usually causes a power outage lasting one minute or longer. When a power outage occurs, Tampa Electric will respond to the outage and make any repairs necessary to restore power.
Momentary interruptions
Momentary interruptions typically last less than a second and are commonly caused by a short circuit that results when something encounters power lines: animals, trees or other power lines. If this happens, a breaker automatically de-energizes the circuit and causes a momentary interruption to your service until the problem is cleared. This safety device prevents damage that can lead to an extended outage.
During Florida's hurricane season, outages may increase due to high winds and lightning. To minimize outages, Tampa Electric inspects and trims trees away from power lines. Animals can also cause power outages. Tampa Electric works with environmental experts to protect birds and other animals by researching new ways to prevent them from contacting our equipment, such as squirrel guards and bird cones. We also relocate birds' nests and build special platforms to encourage birds to build homes away from our power lines.
Reporting power outages
To report a power outage and get updates about the status of your electric service:
- Sign up for outage notifications. You can receive texts*, emails, and/or phone calls regarding your service and other important information.
- Text OUT to 27079 to report an outage. Text UPDATE or STATUS for updates on your reported outage.
- Visit our outage map to report and track outages in your neighborhood. You can learn the cause and restoration status in addition to the number of customers affected and the estimated restoration time.
*Message and data rates may apply. If the number you text from is not recognized, you will need to register to report outages and get updates. For new registrations, please have your 12-digit account number and zip code available.
