Y2k Public Statement
March 22, 1999
To Customers of the Greeneville Light & Power System
This Year 2000 Statement is designated as a Year 2000 readiness Disclosure pursuant to the Year 2000 Information and Readiness Disclosure Act.
In today’s world, consumers cannot avoid interaction with computer controlled systems. Computers make our cars run more efficiently, they maintain our bank accounts, they total our purchases at stores, and they help entertain us through television, radio, and the movies. Computers make our lives more efficient, productive, and comfortable, as long as they run as programmed. That is the basis for concern over the year 2000 issue. Experts have known for several years that certain computer based devices and software programs could fail to function normally during the transition from year 1999 to year 2000. These experts offer a wide range of predicted consequences from minor annoyances to full scale shutdowns of critical operations. In view of all the publicity on this issue, should Greeneville Light & Power System’s Customers be concerned with the safety and reliability of their electric service? Cautious concern seems to be the best answer.
We at GL&PS agree with industry experts that all our computer based systems should be tested and proven to be ready for the year 2000. We have contacted most of our suppliers to determine which, if any, systems are at risk. We find some that are 100% ready, and others which still have work to do. In cases where the supplier does not respond to our inquiry, GL&PS personnel will run exhaustive tests to determine any risk. Finding any potential problems now allows ample time to develop solutions so that there is no impact on our operations immediately after midnight December 31, 1999.
If January 1, 2000 arrived tomorrow, would the power distribution system in Greene County be able to provide our Customers with electric service. Absolutely yes. A great majority of our power system equipment does not use any computer controls. While some newer equipment does have computer controls, all equipment can be placed in a "manual" operating mode, or it can be bypassed completely while any problems are worked out. It helps to remember that the power distribution industry existed long before the invention of the microprocessor. Computers have allowed us to do our jobs better, faster, and less expensively, but we can operate safely without them.
Well before the year 2000 arrives, we will have tested (and repaired if necessary) all equipment under our control that might possibly be affected by the date change.
We will be glad to discuss any Customer concerns related to the year 2000 issue. Please call us at 636-6200, Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Ask for our engineering department. If one of the people working on this program is not available, leave your number and someone will call you back.
Bill Carroll
General Manager, GLPS