Entergy CEO: Isaac response ‘the best we’ve ever done’

Judging by the results of Entergy’s post-Isaac storm response, and the time frame in which power was safely restored, “It’s the best we’ve ever done,” says Bill Mohl, president and CEO of Entergy Louisiana and Entergy Gulf States (the latter of which serves Baton Rouge). Officials say 99% of customers statewide had their power restored within a week of losing it, compared to 80% at the same point after Hurricane Gustav. William Bryan, a deputy assistant secretary with the U.S. Department of Energy, in a prepared statement says Entergy surpassed the “typical benchmark” of 70% restoration within five to seven days. Of course, the Louisiana Public Service Commission will be the official judge of Entergy’s performance; the New Orleans City Council plans to investigate how Entergy New Orleans prepared for, and reacted to, the storm. Port Allen-based attorney Tony Clayton has filed class action suits on behalf of customers of Entergy New Orleans and Entergy Louisiana, alleging the utilities failed to adequately prepare for and respond to Isaac. Clayton says the suit will serve as a “discovery mechanism” to “shed a complete light to the public as to what took place, and what led up to this debacle.” —David Jacobs