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Nashville Mayor Slams NES for Slow Power Restoration

2/2/2026

Summary

O'Connell Demands Accountability

Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell criticized Nashville Electric Service (NES) for inadequate crisis communication and slow power restoration after the severe winter storm, as more than 31,000 customers remain without power and full restoration is targeted by February 9.
After a meeting with NES leadership, O'Connell said the crisis communication has been unacceptable.
NES plans to deploy 500 additional linemen to speed repairs as residents in cold conditions demand quicker action.

Summary

O'Connell Addresses Power Outage

As of February 1, more than 34,000 Nashville customers lack power after a severe ice storm.
The storm affected Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana, causing at least 36 deaths.
Residents criticize Nashville Electric Service for slow restoration and poor communication.
Nashville Electric Service says some areas may not regain full power until February 11.
Icy conditions hinder repair work and access to damaged infrastructure.

History

Historical Context

The 1994 North American Ice Storm caused extensive power outages, impacting over 4 million customers in Canada and the U.S. and resulting in 30 fatalities. This event underscored the importance of emergency preparedness and utility accountability, similar to the ongoing Nashville crisis, prompting increased scrutiny on utility companies' responses during severe weather events.

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O'Connell Demands Accountability

Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell criticized Nashville Electric Service (NES) for inadequate crisis communication and slow power restoration after the severe winter storm, as more than 31,000 customers remain without power and full restoration is targeted by February 9.
After a meeting with NES leadership, O'Connell said the crisis communication has been unacceptable.
NES plans to deploy 500 additional linemen to speed repairs as residents in cold conditions demand quicker action.

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