System Maintenance: Please note starting today, January 28, 2026 at 8 PM to January 29, 2026 1 AM, we will be experiencing planned customer information system maintenance and will only be able to process gas emergency-related calls by calling 210-353-HELP (4357) or 1-800-870-1006. Online outage reporting and outage map updates will be unavailable.
Reclosers: What are they and why are they important?
An electric recloser is a smart switch device used in power distribution systems to detect and automatically respond to faults that occur on electrical lines.
How Do Reclosers Work?
- When a fault is detected, reclosers temporarily open the circuit and shut off the power to the affected section of a line
- After a short period of time, these smart switches attempt to close the section and restore power
- If the fault is temporary, power resumes.
- If a fault remains on the line and is permanent, the recloser will open the segment until a crew arrives for inspection and repairs
Why Are Reclosers Important?
- They improve grid reliability
- They reduce the duration of outages
- Fewer customers are affected by outages
- Automation helps eliminate the manual intervention needed for temporary issues
Preventive Safety Measures
CPS Energy will implement Safety Settings when an area is at risk of a wildfire or natural disaster. Safety Settings will disable recloser switching to avoid restoring power to a faulty line, helping to reduce potential risks.