(CUMMING, GA) – Sawnee EMC announced today that it will send two (2) more crews to assist in power restoration efforts in southeast Georgia; this time at Satilla REMC in Alma, Georgia. The crews, comprised of 14 lineman and a safety coordinator, will join other utilities from Georgia and other states who are still assisting with rebuilding electric systems which have seen unprecedented damage due to Hurricane Helene.

Following the initial impact of Hurricane Helene, Sawnee EMC sent two (2) crews to Washington EMC in Sandersville, Georgia.  Those initial crews were relieved a week later by two (2) more crews.  Altogether, Sawnee’s crews have worked tirelessly to assist in the ongoing restoration effort to those affected. While many restoration needs are in the field, there are other areas that need assistance. To that end, two (2) Sawnee EMC warehouse employees were sent to Jefferson Energy, an electric cooperative headquartered in Wrens, Georgia. These employees assist by helping organize and distribute material and equipment for line crews to use in the field.  Sawnee EMC also released its contract crews to assist throughout south Georgia in restoration efforts. 

“If there was ever a time to come together and help our sister Cooperatives and our fellow Georgians, it is now,” states Blake House, Sawnee EMC Vice President of Member Services. “Cooperatives band together in the form of mutual aid during a disaster, and it is that network that gets the job done,” he further states.

In total and throughout the restoration process thus far, Sawnee EMC has sent 53 employees to assist.

About Sawnee EMC

Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an electric distribution cooperative headquartered in Cumming, Georgia. Sawnee serves electricity to approximately 200,000 accounts in seven (7) counties of greater north Georgia. Sawnee’s total assets exceed $881 million, with energy sales of 3.7 billion kWh and annual revenue of approximately $441 million. With a team of approximately 375 dedicated professionals and over 12,006 miles of distribution line, Sawnee stands ready at all times to meet the needs of its members/owners. SEMC strives daily to live up to their motto…

“At Sawnee EMC, We’re More Than Electricity, We’re Service”.

_{This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer}