Emergency Response + Assistance Practices (Apr 21-23)

Join us for informal gathering and mingle and network in a relaxed atmosphere at the Iron & Oak Restaurant and Bar, conveniently located within Oakland Marriott City Center. Whether you're reconnecting with old friends or making new connections, this social mixer sets the stage for a collaborative event experience. Please note, this is an unsponsored and unhosted gathering, solely for attendees to enjoy each other's company before the main event.

Pick up your name tag and meet the WEI staff. Need to register a colleague? On-site registration will be available. Participants of the optional tour to the HAWC need to check in by 8:15 AM.

The Hazard Awareness and Warning Center (HAWC) is PG&E’s hub for collecting and distributing information on hazards in the service territory. Utilizing a variety of tools, resources, and relationships, the HAWC team monitors for hazards 24/7/365. Tools and resources include Satellite detections, Wildfire cameras with AI fire detection, a variety of social media and official data feeds among others. Leveraging the expertise of the HAWC team, Geosciences, Meteorology and field personnel, the HAWC provides situational awareness for PG&E regarding monitored hazards. Transportation provided by PG&E.

Join us for a Networking and Welcome Lunch — an opportunity to connect with fellow attendees and kick off our event on a high note. Enjoy a delicious meal while mingling with industry professionals, exchanging ideas, and forging new relationships. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or new to the scene, this relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is the perfect setting to start building valuable connections.

In the opening remarks, led by PG&E (event chair) and WEI, attendees are warmly welcomed to the Emergency Response Assistance Practices Forum. The focus is on fostering collaboration and sharing best practices in emergency response within the energy industry.

The session on the Maui wildfires will discuss the IMT activation and response, highlight insights from the After-Action Report (AAR) and lessons learned process. We’ll also discuss requests through WRMAG, and coordination with FEMA and HI-EMA.

In this session, we explore utility responses to two major natural disasters: the 2023 British Columbia wildfires and the 2024 Pacific Northwest ice storm. From battling wildfires to navigating icy conditions, utilities faced significant challenges in maintaining infrastructure and restoring services. Through case studies and firsthand experiences, we uncover innovative strategies and collaborative efforts employed by utilities to mitigate damage and expedite recovery.

This session will feature a detailed overview of the process of tomorrow's "Major Event Tabletop Exercise" along with thorough briefing for all participants.

For WRMAA signatory companies only.

Join us for a hosted networking reception at the end of day one of our event, sponsored by Black&McDonald.
This is the perfect opportunity to unwind, reflect on the day's insights, and connect with fellow attendees. Enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres as you engage in lively conversations and forge new relationships. We look forward to seeing you there as we continue to build connections and foster collaboration for a successful day two!

Kick off day 2 with a hot breakfast from our breakfast buffet

We will delve into a comprehensive simulation involving both gas and electric utilities. In this session, participants will navigate through a major event timeline, exploring various responses and mutual assistance strategies. Through realistic scenarios and interactive discussions, attendees will have the opportunity to assess their preparedness, coordination, and communication during catastrophic incidents. This exercise will provide valuable insights into enhancing collaboration between utilities and stakeholders, optimizing response efforts, and leveraging mutual assistance resources effectively.

Join us for a sponsored networking break courtesy of Storm Services LLC. Revitalize and energize during your morning break by socializing with other participants, savoring some refreshments, and forging valuable connections.

Join us for part 2 as we dive deeper into the exercise. Let's pick up where we left off and continue the conversation.

Review and analysis session to evaluate performance, identify lessons learned, and enhance future preparedness.

After an engaging morning simulating a major event response, recharge and network over lunch. Share insights, exchange ideas, and connect with fellow participants as you reflect on the morning's exercise and discussions. This is an excellent opportunity to build relationships and expand your professional network in a relaxed and informal setting.

Discover how smart meters, drones, and AI are reshaping crisis response and management. We'll showcase BC Hydro's smart meter utilization during storms, SRP and BC Hydro's drone deployments for damage assessment and aid delivery, and SRP's AI-driven wildfire mitigation strategies. Gain insights into these transformative technologies and their role in building a safer, more resilient future.

Join us for a sponsored networking break courtesy of Collective Strategic Resources, part of PowerGrid Services. Refresh and recharge while mingling with fellow attendees, enjoy refreshments and make valuable connections.

This session will explore the critical aspects of setting up and effectively managing strike teams for emergency response scenarios. Learn from industry leaders and experts as they share best practices, challenges, and innovative strategies for ensuring swift and efficient responses during crises. Gain valuable insights into team composition, training, communication strategies, and coordination with local authorities. Don't miss this opportunity to exchange ideas and network with peers to enhance your organization's emergency preparedness and response capabilities.

We will review the topics discussed during the conference and via a roundtable address any topics that need further discussion. All are encouraged to engage and share experiences, best practices, and solutions.

Join us for an exclusive opportunity to network at the 2024 Operations Conference Welcome Reception. Open to all ERAP attendees, this reception promises an evening of connection and camaraderie. Enjoy refreshments, mingle with industry professionals, and kickstart valuable conversations in a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're here for the 'Operations Conference' or simply looking to expand your network, this reception sets the stage for meaningful interactions and collaboration. We look forward to welcoming you!