Pineville, La. – Today, Cleco celebrates National Lineman Appreciation Day by honoring its 153 line mechanics across its service territory with words of thanks and special events.  

Designated by Congress, the day recognizes the efforts of linemen in keeping the power on and protecting public safety.

“Cleco’s linemen work safely in challenging conditions, day and night, to keep the lights on for our customers,” said James Lass, manager of distribution operations and emergency assistance.  “Hosting a crawfish boil or providing breakfast for our crews is a small token of our appreciation for their hard work and service to our customers.” 

In addition to keeping the electricity flowing for Cleco’s 288,000 customers, the company’s linemen are often called away from their families for days, and sometimes weeks, to help other utilities restore power to businesses and residences across the country following severe weather. 

In October 2016, Cleco sent a 44-member storm team to aid Georgia Power in its recovery operations following Hurricane Matthew.  Working more than 5,280 hours, Cleco line crews helped replace and repair nearly 1,000 power poles and run approximately 120 miles of new wire.

“In January 2017, we accepted our ninth Emergency Assistance Award from Edison Electric Institute (EEI) for our line crew’s response to Hurricane Matthew,” said Lass.  “The award recognizes extraordinary response in assisting electric companies with power restoration after service disruptions by severe weather conditions or other natural events.” 

Cleco asks its customers to join the company in extending a word of thanks to its line crews today, and every day, for their dedication to providing safe, reliable power across Louisiana.