DWP power loss threat

Nearly a year after a heat wave triggered mass power outages across Los Angeles and exposed problems in the city's aging electrical system, the DWP has replaced thousands of transformers, repaired hundreds of problem circuits and hired private crews on standby. Staff writer Kerry Cavanaugh details the challenges in today's Daily News.

But as Los Angeles prepares for another potentially record-breaking summer, some are questioning whether the repairs will be enough to keep the power on.

"There will be widespread outages in the West Valley, West Los Angeles and downtown," predicted Brian D'Arcy, business manager of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 18, which represents more than 80 percent of DWP employees.

"They've done pretty much nothing since last summer. They need to hire people. They need to start doing load-testing.

"At the very least, they need to warn people in Los Angeles that there is a plan if they lose power."

Department of Water and Power managers, backed by the board overseeing the utility, dispute D'Arcy's assertions and say they are confident this summer will not be a repeat of last year.

General Manager Ronald Deaton said the DWP has replaced problem equipment, hired extra emergency crews and improved customer response.