What's New

Dec 13, 2011

Pike to be Subcontractor to Fluor for Clean Line Energy 800-Mile Transmission Line

MOUNT AIRY, N.C. – December 13, 2011 – Pike Electric Corporation (NYSE: PIKE), one of the nation’s leading energy solutions providers, announced today that it will be a subcontractor to Fluor (NYSE: FLR) for the proposed Plains & Eastern Clean Line LLC project, which is an 800-mile high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line from Oklahoma to Tennessee and is currently in the development and permitting stages.

Fluor, which announced today that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Plains and Eastern Clean Line LLC, an affiliate of Clean Line Energy Partners LLC, will provide development support, preliminary engineering, procurement and construction services (EPC) for the project. After the project has received all permits and regulatory and financial approvals, Fluor and Pike will provide the full EPC services for the transmission line project. The Plains & Eastern Clean Line will consist of approximately 800 miles of overhead HVDC transmission lines that will deliver 3,500 megawatts of power from Oklahoma, Texas and Kansas to the southeastern United States.

“We are excited to bring our full suite of services to this important renewable energy project. The partnership of Pike, Fluor and Clean Line ensures qualified talent at all levels will be working to make this HVDC transmission line project a success,” said Eric Pike, Chairman and CEO of Pike Electric Corporation.

The completion of the Plains & Eastern Clean Line transmission project will make possible an estimated $7 billion of new renewable energy projects that otherwise may not be built due to limitations of the existing electric transmission grid. The Plains & Eastern Clean Line will create thousands of jobs and increase state and local tax revenues. The project is expected to take several years to fully permit and could begin commercial operation as early as 2017.

About Clean Line Energy Partners Clean Line’s mission is to connect abundant, renewable energy resources to areas that have a high demand for clean, reliable energy. Clean Line is developing a series of long distance high voltage direct current transmission projects to move renewable energy to market. For more information please visit www.cleanlineenergy.com

About Fluor Corporation

Fluor Corporation designs, builds and maintains many of the world's most challenging and complex projects. Through its global network of offices on six continents, the company provides comprehensive capabilities and world-class expertise in the fields of engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, operations, maintenance and project management. Headquartered in Irving, Texas, Fluor is a FORTUNE 200 company and had revenue of $20.8 billion in 2010. For more information, visit www.fluor.com

Nov 21, 2011

PIKE ELECTRIC RECEIVES NC OSHA’S CAROLINA STAR AWARD FOR WORKPLACE SAFETY AND HEALTH EXCELLENCE

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Pike Electric was recognized by the North Carolina Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration as a “Carolina STAR” site under OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program at its Mount Airy facility. Since 1982, out of a potential 220,000 businesses in North Carolina, only 94 sites have been recognized for this prodigious achievement. Pike is the only electrical contractor to receive the award in the state of North Carolina.

The “Carolina STAR” recognition is the highest honor given to facilities demonstrating outstanding health and safety practices. In awarding this elite status, NC OSHA gives strong consideration to the level of employee involvement in on-site health and safety program development and to long term management commitment and support.

At the presentation of the Carolina STAR Site Plaque and Flag, Cherie Berry, Commissioner for North Carolina’s Department of Labor stated, “Pike participates with us on the Career Development Program, Lineman Rodeo and now, the Carolina STAR. Congratulations to all the employees at Pike for achieving our highest safety recognition. ”

“Throughout the years, Pike has changed for the better. There have been lots of milestones but today is a pinnacle,” said J. Eric Pike, Chairman and CEO of Pike Corporation. “This commitment is reflective of our entire corporation’s overall dedication to operational safety excellence.”

Nov 02, 2011

Pike Crews responding to North East Storm

Roy Sceace, left, and Chris Pack of Pike Electric from Mt. Airy, N.C., work to restore electric power on South Main Street in Newtown Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2011. The same company sent crews to Greater Danbury to help during Tropical Storm Irene. Photo: Michael Duffy / CT

Read more: Click Here Read More

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Certified Utility Safety Professional Program Offers Utility-Specific Safety Credentials
Oct 21, 2011

PIKE ELECTRIC EMPLOYEES RECEIVE CUSP GREEN CREDENTIALS

The Utility Safety & Ops Leadership Network (USOLN) is pleased to announce that Clifford Carroll and Ronald Conley, both of Pike Electric, have received the Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP) credential. They are part of the Louisville, Ky. class that took the CUSP exam on October 6. The CUSP program was developed by the USOLN to promote safety leadership in the utility industry by formally recognizing those individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements and pass the CUSP exam. The exam is designed to test a broad-based understanding of utility safety regulations, competencies and task-directed skills. CUSP certification encourages continued personal and professional growth in the practice of utility safety leadership and provides a national standard of requisite knowledge required for certification.

CUSP certification is the only program that offers utility-specific safety credentials to meet the unique requirements of utilities and related utility contractors. CUSP certification is a two-tiered, color-designated program. To be eligible for the CUSP Green – Safety Management program, an individual must have three years of safety experience in the utility industry and at least five years in an assumed safety position. The CUSP Blue – Operations Management, Supervisory and Foreman program requires three years of utility field experience and at least one year in an assumed safety position. All eligible individuals must pass either the CUSP Green or CUSP Blue exam in order to be certified.

Carroll and Conley met the eligibility requirements for the CUSP Green program and passed the exam to receive their CUSP Green credentials.

“Successful completion of the CUSP Green exam confirms a high level of knowledge in the utility safety discipline and allows the group from Pike Electric to use the CUSP credential,” said Carla Housh, USOLN executive director. “We congratulate the Pike Electric employees on this significant accomplishment in their careers, which will only enhance their value to their employer and the industry. The USOLN is proud that Clifford and Ronald were some of the first individuals to take the step of becoming CUSPs.”

Before taking the CUSP Green exam, the group completed a comprehensive two-day safety leadership course offered by the USOLN. It is designed to enhance job safety knowledge and leadership skills, and to help prepare for the CUSP exam. While it is optional, the USOLN recommends that individuals planning to take the CUSP exam enroll in this valuable training course. For further information on the the two-day safety leadership course, the CUSP program and the exam schedule, visit www.usoln.org call Carla Housh at 815-459-1796.

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The Utility Safety & Ops Leadership Network is a group of utilities, contractors and communications providers working together to establish strong safety leadership through a reliable Certified Utility Safety Professional program, legislative and regulatory updates, and networking resources.

Oct 03, 2011

Pike Electric Corp. Vice President of IT will present at Gartner’s Symposium in Orlando, FL

Pike Electric Corporation (NYSE:PIKE - News), one of the nation's leading energy solutions providers, announced that it will present at Gartner’s Symposium ITxpo 2011 at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL on October 19th.

Michael Seymour, Vice President of Information Technology, will present at 1:30 pm Eastern as part of a three person executive panel on the topic of CIO Innovation. The session will be located at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Convention Center – Grand Harbor South.

Gartner Symposium/ITxpo 2011 is the industry's largest and most important annual gathering of CIOs and senior IT leaders. It delivers independent and objective content with the authority and weight of the world's leading IT research and advisory organization. For more information please visit, http://www.gartner.com/technology/symposium/orlando/index.jsp

Sep 02, 2011

Customers revel in simple pleasures as BGE makes final fixes with the help of Pike Crews

Utility tries to clear the last few storm outages

Click here to see how Pike crews responding to Irene

Sep 02, 2011

Pike crews responding to Irene Affected BGE Customers

Click here to see how Pike crews responding to Irene

August 29, 2011

Pike Electric is the newest class of Certified Utility Safety Professionals.

By Carla Housh of Incident Prevention Magazine

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Last week Pam Tompkins and I had the pleasure of bringing the Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP) program to Pike Electric in Charlotte, N.C. The Pike safety team is a very knowledgeable and dedicated group.Most of the Pike safety leaders have been with the company for 20+ years. It was especially interesting to learn more about the company over dinner. Pike Electric has been providing contracting services since 1945, and today its employees work in 49 states and several countries. I continue to learn something new every day as I had thought they were a large Southeastern contractor. After completing the Pike class, the number of CUSPs serving the utility industry has grown to 147! Not bad for a relatively new certification program.There is still time to earn your CUSP in 2011 as we’re offering classes in Kentucky, Florida and Nebraska. Visit www.usoln.org to learn more and get started on the process.

August 16, 2011

Pike Electric Corp. Chairman and CEO interviewed on Bloomberg Television

J. Eric Pike, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Pike Electric Corp., talks with Pimm Fox on Bloomberg Television's “Taking Stock.” He speaks about the distribution of electricity in the U.S. as well as regulation of the electricity industry and the company's projects in Southern California and Tanzania.

The Company is also a recognized leader in storm restoration services.

Click here to see Eric Pike interview on Bloomberg about the U.S. Distribution of Electricity Is Rebounding

Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania July 11, 2011

Pike CEO Eric Pike attends Tanzanian State Dinner

Stressing partnership and economic development during a state dinner held at the Tanzanian State House, President Jakaya Kikwete thanked visiting US business leaders for their support of his country’s efforts to expand and build critical infrastructure.

Senior executives from the US currently participating in an economic summit organized by the Tanzanian Ambassador Mwanaidi Maajar were invited to attend the dinner and interact with the President and administration leadership.

“This was an incredible opportunity to talk directly with decision makers and hear firsthand about how we can continue to help the people of Tanzania accomplish their goals. Talking with President Kikwete and his staff has confirmed the importance of our work to expand the energy network throughout the country, while also giving us a chance to listen to their vision of the future,” stated Pike Electric CEO J. Eric Pike.

During the President’s speech Mr. Kikwerete focused in on the country’s safety, security and social wellbeing, but specifically made mention of the vital work currently be carried out by Pike in Dodoma and Tanga. President Kikwete personally thanked Eric Pike and the other delegates for their company’s dedication and service to the Tanzania people.

Pike has been contracted to build out approximately 800 km of new distribution line. This project will run through Eighty-four villages in two areas north of the country’s capital of Dodoma.

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Click here to see the President Jakaya Kikwete hosts a dinner to US investors in Dar es salaam

August 2, 2011

Pike Expands Capabilities in the West; Purchases Pine Valley Power, Inc.

Pike Electric Corporation (NYSE: PIKE), one of the nation’s leading energy solutions providers, announced its purchase of Pine Valley Power, Inc. based in Bluffdale, Utah. Pine Valley Power provides construction and maintenance services to the transmission and distribution, renewable energy, industrial water and mining industries. Pine Valley generated revenue of approximately $25 million during the last 12 months. Michael Horan, Pine Valley Power’s President, will retain that position.

“Mike and his talented team, their geographic location and strong union relations will enable Pike Electric Corporation, through Pine Valley Power, to construct and maintain transmission and distribution infrastructure throughout the West. Mike and his team also bring tremendous renewable energy knowledge including geothermal electricity generation.

Pine Valley Power combined with our Pike Energy Solutions West coast engineering offices and our Klondyke Construction business based in Phoenix, Arizona provide a great team to pursue large scale EPC projects in the West,” stated J. Eric Pike, Chairman and CEO of Pike Electric Corporation. “Joining the Pike family of companies gives us the resources to pursue more and larger projects as we work to dramatically grow our business. Our customers have been looking for us to take on larger, more complex projects and with Pike’s backing that will now be possible,” explained Mike Horan, Pine Valley Power President.

“Over the past three years Pike has continued to execute on our growth strategy of service line diversification and geographic expansion. Mike and his team help us continue this strategy in the West, and provide a platform to leverage our full range of services to customers in that region,” continued Mr. Pike.

Jun 27, 2011

KUB: Restoring power to remaining customers will take time

KUB crews have restored power to more than 100,000 customers since Tuesday night's storm. Approximately 25,000 KUB customers remain without electricity as of 4:30 p.m. Thursday, and for some of those, it could be days before power is restored.

A total of 67,000 customers were restored within the first 24 hours of the outage, marking the largest number of customers ever restored in that short a period of time.

Crews have had a tough time accessing the lines due to the large number of downed trees and other extensive damage. Given these challenges, a definite time frame for restoration of specific areas is not available, and KUB is advising customers to prepare for outages lasting multiple days. Restoration in areas with extensive damage will likely extend through the weekend, and potentially into next week.

"We want our customers to know that this will be an extended outage," said Mintha Roach, KUB President and CEO. "The severity and widespread nature of damage from this storm is unprecedented for our system, and although we've made good progress, restoration is going to take several days."

There are several thousand line repair jobs waiting to be worked, and unlike those jobs that were completed in the first 36 hours, these remaining jobs will often only restore power to a handful of customers at a time. A typical line job can take up to 4-6 hours to repair. Jobs requiring a pole replacement take a minimum of 6-8 hours.

KUB has called in extra help. In addition to 27 KUB crews, they've brought in 30 Pike Electric contract crews from across the state, including Clinton, Bristol, Kingsport, Greeneville, Johnson City, and Murfreesboro. Pike crews have also come in from Kentucky and Virginia to assist.

Customers can seek help from the following agencies as KUB continues to restore service:

•Red Cross Shelter - The Knoxville Red Cross office has opened a shelter at Central Baptist Church, 5364 N. Broadway, for individuals and families who are without power.

The shelter can handle people with special medical equipment, and can administer minor first aid.

•No reservations needed. Meals and sleeping accommodations are provided. The public can call the Red Cross office at (865) 584-2999 for more information.

•Day Respite - The O'Connor Senior Center is open Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Must be 50 and older. Activities are available, plus attendees can watch TV or read. Call 523-1135 for more information.

•Call 211 - Information is available for locations and times where hot meals available throughout the community.

•Knox Area Rescue Ministries - Serves three meals a day to anyone in need. Located at 418 N. Broadway.

•Samaritan Place - A program of Catholic Charities that can provide temporary housing for those 55 and older. Must call ahead to 684-1880.

•Customers with critical medical equipment may need to initiate their emergency plan to relocate to a safe location or contact their health care provider to arrange for backup equipment.

Jun 27, 2011

95 utility crews working to restore power to KUB customers

More utility crews than ever before are working in Knox County after an unprecedented power outage for the Knoxville Utilities Board.

KUB has called contract crews in from across the state and from as far away as Indiana to help restore power to customers. There are currently 95 KUB and contract crews working to assess damages, clear trees and debris, and repair poles and lines.

In addition to KUB and Pike Electric crews, Friday's list also includes resources provided by Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative and its contract crews from Service One.

"We appreciate the support we've received from our contractors, suppliers, and neighboring utilities," said Mintha Roach, KUB President and CEO. "We were gaining ground in our restoration efforts, but this morning's storm was a setback. We appreciate our customers' patience as we continue to repair the damage from both of these storms."

Crews have replaced 49 transformers and 50 poles so far during restoration efforts. KUB has stocked up on the materials needed to supply crews repairing damages, and further deliveries are scheduled to continue through next week.

At the height of Tuesday's storm, more than 127,000 KUB customers were without power.

Approximately 29,000 KUB customers remain without electricity as of 11:30 a.m. following another round of severe storms that hit the KUB service territory early Friday morning.

The outages continue to be scattered with the largest concentrations in northwest, south and west Knox County. KUB will continue working non-stop to restore power to all customers.

Jun 13, 2011

How MCC’s Work in Tanzania Supports a Better Economic Future for the United States

Daniel W. Yohannes is the Chief Executive Officer of the Millenium Challenge Corporation.

Earlier this year, President Obama made clear in his State of the Union address that his focus is on winning the future – getting our economy going after the worst recession since the Great Depression, while laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and job creation.

Some might wonder how an international development agency like the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) fits into this vision. America has always been a generous nation, and our moral leadership is reflected in MCC’s goal of reducing poverty through economic growth in developing countries. But MCC’s investments not only benefit poor people overseas, they are critically important to our future prosperity here at home.

That fact is illustrated in Tanzania where MCC investments are both helping to reduce poverty and providing opportunities for American companies. In 2008, MCC signed a $698 million compact with Tanzania. Two American companies, Symbion Power and Pike Electric, were awarded -- after an open, competitive bidding process -- contracts to build more than 20 power sub-stations and install approximately 1,000 miles of power lines in Tanzania, which will provide electricity to over 330 communities previously without power.

This weekend Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and I are visiting with these American entrepreneurs, who have used MCC-funded contracts as an opportunity to enter a new market and make their own investment in Tanzania.

While still one of the poorest countries in the world, with a gross national income of approximately $500 per capita, Tanzania is among a group of relatively well-governed African n ations that are moving in the right direction. Real GDP growth has been 6 percent or higher in Tanzania in every year over the last decade – even in the midst of the global financial crisis.

In short, Tanzania is a next-generation emerging market that is a smart place to invest for American companies with an eye on the long term.

That is exactly the thinking of Symbion Power, which has just purchased a 112-megawatt power plant in Tanzania that it plans to modify and expand. Secretary Clinton and I are touring the plant with Symbion Power CEO Paul Hinks, and we are excited about this new venture and its potential to improve electrical service in Tanzania and provide an American company with a stronger foothold in Africa.

In this increasingly globalized economy, we need innovative companies like Symbion and Pike to aggressively pursue opportunities in fast-growing African markets. Their investments will help reduce poverty in Tanzania, but will also support jobs and economic growth in the United States. And the ties they forge will encourage Tanzania to look to America as a trading partner.

That is why MCC is excited to be partnering with companies like Symbion and Pike. As the progress we are making here shows, smart investment in the developing world and close partnership with the private sector can allow us to improve the lives of those who live in poverty even as we build a stronger America for our children and grandchildren.

Jun 13, 2011

Symbion Power Seeks to Expand Capacity in Tanzania, Chief Executive Says

Symbion Power LLC, owner of a 120- megawatt power plant in Tanzania, is interested in expanding capacity in the East African nation and may make further acquisitions there, Chief Executive Officer Paul Hinks said.

The company, based in Washington D.C., is in talks with the Tanzania Electric Supply Co. about boosting output and any increase “will depend on Tanesco wanting us to produce more, ” Hicks told reporters yesterday in Dar es Salaam, the commercial capital. “We also hope to make some more acquisitions, but there is nothing in the pipeline.”

Symbion purchased the gas-fired Dowans Power plant in Tanzania last month. The acquisition is one of the measures that the Tanzanian government expects to help close a 260-megawatt power deficit in East Africa’s second-biggest economy, Energy and Mineral Minister William Ngeleja told reporters in Dar es Salaam yesterday.

Last week, the Planning Commission in the Tanzanian presidency published a five-year development plan that proposes spending 4.7 trillion shillings ($2.96 billion) to increase electricity output to 2,780 megawatts by 2015 from 1,000 megawatts currently.

The Tanzanian government also has $206 million available from a U.S. grant program to improve electricity distribution in the country, according to the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania. Symbion Power and Pike Electric Corp. (PIKE), based in Mount Airy, North Carolina, won contracts of $110 million and $18 million respectively from the Millennium Challenge Account to build substations and extend electricity distribution in Tanzania, the embassy said on its website.

Symbion Power said last week it signed an interim agreement with Tanesco to sell power to the state-owned utility. The company charges a rate of $4.99 per kilowatt hour, it said.

May 02, 2011

Upended, and helped

On May 07, 2011,-- Raleigh, NC - Upended, and helped

My husband and I are happy to be settled in to our cozyt routine again. This time last week our power was still out from the storm and we were crowded into our son's small apartment. Tuesday afternoon we watched the last of the Pike Electric trucks from Mount Airy pull away as our lights came back on.

Our thoughts now are with those who still wait and worry and wish for their old routine, and worse, grieve for lost lives, homes and precious possessions. We can't imagine the stress, discomfort, anxiety and sadness they are living with.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to those utility workers from here and elsewhere who have worked so hard to restore order, as well as the EMS, police and fire personnel who responded so quickly, and the countless organizations and volunteers who are steadily helping those who have been left with lives upended.

Apr 08, 2011

Pike IT to Present at National Conference

On Apr 07, 2011,-- Mount Airy, NC - Two members of Pike’s Information Technology Department have been selected to present at the Inspire 2011 Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. Inspire 2011 is the national user conference for Perceptive Software, a subsidiary of Lexmark Corporation. Andrew Prisk and Amarnath Vangoor will be discussing the integration and usage of Message Agent and Mail Agent and how Pike has extended the native capabilities of the Perceptive product, ImageNow, to streamline operations in Pike’s back office. In addition Pike will be demonstrating a Web and iPad client designed to extend ImageNow’s capabilities to mobile devices.

The session will be held on Wednesday, April 13th at 8:30am. Pike has also been selected to participate as a Partner in Perceptive’s Software Developer Network – Partner Highlight session of the conference. This session will highlight three partners who have developed innovative add-ons that extend the capabilities of the core platform and give them an opportunity to discuss and market those add-ons to other Perceptive customers. For more information on Inspire or Pike’s session please see: Inspire 2011 website: http://www.perceptivesoftware.com/company/inspire/index.psi

Extending the ImageNow Platform with Web Services
For:	Department Managers ImageNow System Administrators IS Managers IT Professionals
Perceptive Presenter:	Brandon Crespino, Product Manager
Customer Presenter:	Andrew Prisk, Pike Enterprises Inc. Amar Vangoor, Pike Enterprises Inc.
Duration:	50 minutes
Difficulty:	Intermediate
Content Type:	New
Room:	Lafite 9

SOAP-based web services can extend the accessibility of ImageNow documents in your enterprise, while enabling ImageNow to look up and retrieve data, and create and modify transactions inside external systems. This session explores real-world customer uses of Message Agent and Envoy products, showing you how to:

Extending the ImageNow Platform with Web Services

Seamlessly integrate and automate processes with multiple business applications
Provide key ImageNow document search and retrieval functionality to a broader audience
Automate transaction creation and modification within major package-based solutions
Adapt to changing business and technical requirements

The Perceptive Software Developer Network - Partner Highlights
For:	Department Managers Department Users ImageNow System Administrators IS Managers IT Professionals
Perceptive Presenter:	Sascha Ohler, Team Lead - Technical Partner Management
Guest Presenter:	Stepehen Pickell, CSP Group Steve Chamberlin, Napersoft
Duration:	90 minutes
Difficulty:	Intermediate
Content Type:	New
Room:	Lafite 9

The class will highlight 2-3 partner solutions. The attendees will learn the following:

Information about the PSDN
The extensibility of the Perceptive Software platform
Exciting partner offerings

Apr 08, 2011

CONSTRUCTION work of a 97bn/- project by two US companies to increase power transmission and distribution to rural areas will commence in May as scheduled.
By MASEMBE TAMBWE, 8th April 2011 @ 12:00

"To date we have been working in collaboration with our partners at Symbion, Millennium Challenge Account Tanzania (MCA-T) and Millennium Challenge Compact (MCC) and to begin with the first utility pole will be dropped sometime in the middle of May in Morogoro," Mr Ken Flechler said.

The Pike Enterprises, Inc Vice-President, Mr Flechler exclusively told the 'Daily News on Saturday' via email that they were extremely pleased with their progress todate and look forward to the completion of the project on schedule.

Mr Flechler said that their trucks and equipment are already in Dar es Salaam since last month, saying that this will give them a head start on preparations and getting their equipment in the field.

"Our partnership on the ground with Tanzania is very healthy and we are humbled by the gratitude and support we have received so far and we look forward to the completion of this very important energy project," he was quick to add.

In September, last year, two US companies, Symbion Power was awarded two lots worth 47.7m US Dollars covering Mwanza, Morogoro, Iringa and Mbeya regions while Pike Electric was awarded 17.9m US Dollars to execute a package covering the regions of Dodoma and Tanga.

The Tanzania Millennium Challenge Account Chief Executive Officer, Mr Bernard Mchomvu had explained that the contract awards represented the achievement of yet another important milestone in the ongoing implementation of the 206m US dollars MCC Energy Project.

He said during the signing ceremony that they were confident the great historical performance record they carry would be positively demonstrated when they deliver.

The US Ambassador to Tanzania, Mr Alfonso Lenhardt who witnessed the signing ceremony said that he hoped that the signing of the two contracts won by American companies would help Tanzanians leap frog into the 21st Century, as well as help chip away the barriers that limit greater distribution of power.

The Symbion Power Chief Executive Officer, Mr Paul Hicks said that over 2,000 jobs would be created from the distribution and transmission of power to the regions and that a lot more locals will be trained along the way.

The Pike Electric Chief Executive Officer, Mr Eric Pike explained that his company has been in the power distribution industry since 1945 but it had never worked outside the US, saying that this was a challenge they were looking forward to, especially since the country was on its way towards achieving its national goals.

Other components of the energy projects include the manufacture and installation of a new 100 megawatt submarine power cable, approximately 40km long linking Zanzibar to Mainland Tanzania from Ras Kiromoni to Ras Fumba. The contract was awarded in April, 2010 and the fabrication process is already well underway.

Another key component of the MCC Compact is the construction or rehabilitation of 25 power substations on the Mainland and Zanzibar, including the Zanzibar Interconnector and Distribution Substation Rehabilitation and Extension.

The 45m US dollars contract for the substation work was signed a fortnight ago and awarded to a joint venture between Symbion Power and the French firm Areva.

In addition to the energy project, the MCC Compact includes major components that will provide significant assistance in the transport and water sectors. Under the Compact, USA will provide 698.1m US dollars in assistance to Tanzania by September 2013.

Apr 07, 2011

Lights back on for thousands of Georgians

Pike Georgians

On Apr 07, 2011,-- ALBANY, GA - The lights are back on for thousands of south Georgia's who went more than 30 hours without power.

At Georgia Power's operations center in Albany, out of state crews were lined up Thursday morning waiting to see if there was more work to do. 60 crews from Pike Electric Corporation came to south Georgia from Tampa along with 20 crews from another contractor. By midnight, they had power reconnected to more than 2,200 customers who didn't have electricity most of yesterday.

"This is the largest storm ever to hit with such intensity in such a short period of time, so within the first 24 hours, at the close of the first 24 hours in the south region we had 45,000 customers out, we had it down to 4,100 or 4,200 customers by 8:00 Wednesday morning," said Henry Everson, Georgia Power Engineering Supervisor.

EMC's statewide still had about 1,900 customers without power Thursday. Work was slowed by the need to remove trees and replace so many broken utility poles. Customers who must repair their homes before power can be reconnected are the only ones still without power. Georgia Power and Mitchell EMC's thanked customers for their patience and businesses who provided workers with food.

Mar 02, 2011

Pike working at EnergyUnited on outages

On Apr 05, 2011,-- EnergyUnited crews are working to restore power outages caused by the raging storm that produced winds estimated at 90 miles per hour.

At the peak of this early morning storm, approximately 16,000 EnergyUnited members throughout its 19-county service area were impacted.

As of 10 a.m., slightly more than 8,900 members were without power. The number of members and counties that are still largely impacted include 1,600 in Catawba, 4,500 in Davidson, 1,100 in Lincoln, 500 in Iredell, 360 in Rowan and 200 in Mecklenburg.

EnergyUnited crews began working shortly after 1 a.m. this morning and are continuing their efforts to restore power to the interrupted areas. Officials estimate that power to most members should be restored by this evening. Due to the extent of damage, additional line crews from Pike Electric and neighboring cooperatives are assisting in power restoration efforts. Crews will continue to work until all power is restored.

The cooperative’s service area sustained moderate damage with downed power lines and broken utility poles. Replacing poles and rebuilding lines are a time-consuming process. In storms that produce rain and high winds, power outages are most often caused by fallen trees and branches, making outages widespread

Mar 15, 2011

Pike Leverage Best Practices to Ensure Capacity and Sustainability in Tanzania.
Posted on March 15, 2011 by Matthew Kavanagh, Deputy Resident Country Director, Tanzania

Tanzanian linemen receive hands-on training as part of Northwest Lineman College (NLC) in Meridian, Idaho, where they are learning about electrical systems, accident prevention, and construction methods during a 60-day “train the trainer” program.

At $698.1 million, MCC’s compact with Tanzania is the largest and most ambitious yet, targeting infrastructure investments in the transportation, energy and water sectors. The teams have achieved some impressive milestones in the early days of implementation, including awarding over $550 million in contracts over a 12-month period. After two years of preparatory studies, responsible resettlement and environmental certification, construction is now underway. This is an exciting time for all of us, especially the people of Tanzania.

We are also excited about the dramatic impact a partnership with the private sector can have on our efforts to promote economic growth in Tanzania.

Two American companies, Symbion Power and Pike Electric, competed for and won a significant portion of the Tanzania Compact’s $206 million energy portfolio. In partnership, these two companies will be installing nearly 1,600 kilometers of power lines in six regions, providing electricity to over 330 communities previously without power. Symbion Power has also partnered with Alstom Grid to provide substations in these same six regions, as well as Zanzibar. Inconsistent electricity and power spikes are a source of frustration and lost revenue for many productive businesses in these targeted regions. This combined transmission and distribution investment will have a major impact on both households and businesses by providing a more reliable and higher quality source of electricity.

As Symbion and Pike finalize preparations for construction, they are using their own Corporate Social Responsibility funds, separate from their contractual Compact responsibilities, to implement a unique training plan for construction workers. Symbion and Pike have identified and sent three senior Tanzanian workers to Northwest Lineman College (NLC) in Meridian, Idaho, where they are learning about electrical systems, accident prevention, and construction methods during a 60-day “train the trainer” program. Symbion and Pike also plan to establish a similar training facility in Morogoro, Tanzania, for over 200 Tanzanians who will work on the construction crews on the MCC-funded transmission and distribution activity. NLC will work with Symbion, Pike and their three Tanzanian trainers to get the Morogoro school up and running by April.

Last month I had the privilege of meeting the (future) Tanzanian trainers and seeing them in action at the Northwest Lineman College, along with Ambassador Mwanaidi Majaar (Tanzania’s Ambassador to the United States), Ambassador Joe Wilson (Symbion Power’s Chairman for Africa), Paul Hinks (CEO of Symbion Power), Eric Pike (CEO of Pike Electric), Ken Flechler (Vice President of Pike Electric) and Chris Camponovo (Symbion Power Country Director in Tanzania). Representatives from NLC provided an impressive overview of the school’s mission and how their model has been adapted for Symbion/Pike employees in an overseas context, including by creating a training manual in Swahili and English.

The NLC is considered one of the best institutions in the country for this kind of technical training, and they clearly go above and beyond minimum requirements, especially when it comes to safety and professionalism. Lineman work is considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the United States, and in Tanzania it is even more so given generally poor safety standards (e.g., climbing poles with makeshift ladders, instead of safer harnesses). The Tanzanian Symbion/Pike crews will be wearing safety equipment considered to be the gold standard in the industry; not even all American utility companies require this level of protection despite data that indicates it contributes to reductions in workplace accidents.

Symbion and Pike’s partnership with the NLC with a focus on safety is just one example of their impressive commitment to successfully implementing the MCC Compact projects and establishing their companies in Tanzania. They are also using their own resources to fund social projects in the communities in which they work, including HIV/AIDS and malaria prevention and education initiatives, and planned construction of an innovative secondary school.

Their efforts go beyond putting poles in the ground and stringing electrical lines. They are building key relationships in local communities and making long-term, sustainable investments by building the capacity of their Tanzanian workers and creating what will be the best-trained lineman workforce in Africa.

In the 13 years since I first started working in Africa, including over five years with MCC, this is one of the most impressive initiatives that I have been associated with. It is also exactly the kind of partnership with the private sector – especially the U.S. private sector – that MCC is focused on creating.

We have high hopes for the energy project and look forward to working with Pike and Symbion in meeting our shared goals.

Mar 02, 2011

Pike Awarded $275 Million EPC Transmission Project for SCANA Corporation

On Mar 02, 2011,-- Pike Electric Corporation (NYSE: PIKE), a leading national energy solutions provider, announced today that SCANA Corporation has awarded Pike an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract for approximately 250 miles of new 230kV transmission lines associated with the expansion of the V.C. Summer Nuclear Station in South Carolina.

These lines will support the two nuclear power units being added by South Carolina Electric & Gas Company (SCE&;G), principal subsidiary of SCANA Corporation (NYSE: SCG), and the South Carolina Public Service Authority (Santee Cooper), a state-owned electric and water utility in South Carolina. The new units, known as V.C. Summer 2 and 3, are scheduled for completion in 2016 and 2019. The station began commercial operation January 1, 1984 and this construction marks one of the first U.S. nuclear plants to add reactors in 20 years.

Pike’s ability to provide a full portfolio of services including siting, permitting, engineering, procurement and construction was a key consideration for SCE&G in awarding the contract. In addition, because these lines will be built on existing rights-of-way, Pike’s experience and safety record in working with energized lines and equipment was another factor in SCE&;G’s selection.

“This project demonstrates the full spectrum of energy services Pike now offers to our customers and the industry. We are extremely proud to partner with SCE&G on this landmark project. ," said Eric Pike, Chairman and CEO of Pike. "The engineering for this project begins immediately utilizing Pike's Charlotte office, and construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2014 for Unit 2 and the end of 2018 for Unit 3."

About SCE&;G South Carolina Electric & Gas Company is a regulated public utility engaged in the generation, transmission, distribution and sale of electricity to approximately 661,000 customers in South Carolina. The company also provides natural gas service to approximately 314,000 customers throughout the state. More information about SCE&G is available at www.sceg.com.

About SCANA Corporation SCANA Corporation, a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Columbia, South Carolina, is an energy-based holding company principally engaged, through subsidiaries, in electric and natural gas utility operations and other energy-related businesses in South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. Information about SCANA Corporation and its businesses is available on the Company's Web site at www.scana.com.

Jan 28, 2011

Pike signs OSHA Strategic Partnership Renewal

Pike OSHA

On January 25, 2011, J. Eric Pike, Chairman and CEO of Pike Electric along with CEOs of Asplundh Tree Expert Co., Edison Electric Institute, Henkels & McCoy Inc., IBEW, MDU Construction Services Group Inc., MYR Group Inc., the National Electrical Contractors Association, and Quanta Services, Inc. renewed their strategic partnership with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)to protect electrical transmission and distribution workers. The partnership was originally signed in August 2004 and renewed twice since then.

“As an original member, Pike is excited to renew the OSHA Strategic Partnership and look forward to the continued reduction in employee injuries and accidents,” said J. Eric Pike. “This group will continue to lead safety in the industry in the development and implementation of best practices.”

Since the most recent renewal in 2008, the industry, the Partnership and Pike have reduced its OSHA recordable rates.

June 30, 2010

Pike Expands Reach to Southwest; Purchases Phoenix-based Klondyke Construction, LLC

MT. AIRY, N.C., June 30, 2010 - Pike Electric Corporation (NYSE: PIKE), one of the nation’s leading energy solutions providers, has purchased Klondyke Construction LLC based in Phoenix, AZ.Klondyke provides construction and maintenance services primarily associated with electric substation, transmission and distribution infrastructure. Klondyke also constructs renewable energy generation facilities. Klondyke generated revenue of approximately $28 million during the last twelve months. Following the close of the acquisition, Howard Varner, President, and Steve McClain, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will continue in their current roles at Klondyke.

“The talented individuals that work for Klondyke coupled with their geographic location and union relationships make this a very compelling move for us. This acquisition is consistent with our growth strategy and significantly expands our presence in the southwest,” said J. Eric Pike, Chairman and CEO of Pike.

“Pike’s siting, planning, and engineering capabilities now provide Klondyke the platform to pursue multiple large scale EPC projects simultaneously. This combination positions Klondyke to offer an even broader level of service to our customers,” explained Howard Varner, president of Klondyke.

Klondyke’s range of construction services related to substation, transmission and distribution infrastructure complements our west coast engineering capabilities and enables the continued expansion of EPC services. “This combination allows Pike and Klondyke the ability to meet the increased need for substation and transmission infrastructure in the southwest region as more solar and wind capacity is developed and brought on line,” continued Mr. Pike.

June 03, 2010

June is National Safety Month

General Peter Pace

MOUNT AIRY, N.C., June 03, 2010 -- To promote the safety and health of our employees at work, at home and in the community, Pike is proud to participate in National Safety Month throughout the month of June. Each year the National Safety Council designates June as National Safety Month and encourages businesses to participate. Every week in the month carries a theme that brings attention to critical safety issues. Pike is participating by utilizing materials from the National Safety Council and with our own program focused on safety issues specific to our Company. More details on National Safety Month can be found be visiting the National Safety Council website at http://www.nsc.org/nsc_events/Nat_Safe_Month/Pages/home.aspx

February 04, 2010

Pike Electric Welcomes General Peter Pace, Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to Its Board of Directors

MOUNT AIRY, N.C., Feb 04, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Pike Electric Corporation (NYSE: PIKE), one of the nation's largest providers of energy solutions, today announced that retired Marine General Peter Pace has joined Pike Electric's Board of Directors, effective February 4, 2010. "General Pace is an outstanding addition to our Board," said J. Eric Pike, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Pike Electric. "A highly respected leader, he brings tremendous knowledge and experience regarding cyber security, strategic planning and large scale mobilizations. We look forward to his guidance and insight." As the sixteenth Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Pace served as the principal military advisor to the President, the Secretary of Defense, the National Security Council, and the Homeland Security Council. He is the first Marine to hold this position. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, holds a Master's Degree in Business Administration from George Washington University, and attended Harvard University for the Senior Executives in National and International Security program. General Pace held command at virtually every level in the Marine Corps beginning as a rifle platoon leader in Vietnam.

December 22, 2009

Pike’s Engineering and Substation Team Earns Safety Award

Safety Award

MOUNT AIRY, N.C., Dec. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Pike Electric Corporation (NYSE: PIKE), a leading national energy solutions provider, was awarded the “Silver Safety Award” by Liberty Mutual Group on December 17th. Jimmy R. Hicks, the Senior Vice President of Engineering and Substation Construction, received the award on behalf of the Engineering and Substation team and stated, “All the credit goes to the employees.”

The requirements for Liberty’s Safety Award are based on the DART rates as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Companies who apply for the award must have completed greater than 200,000 work hours with a DART rate that is 60% better than their industry average. Between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2008, Pike’s Engineering and Substation Team completed 1,091,266 work hours with a OSHA DART rate that was 68% better than the industry.

Ken Flechler, Pike’s Vice President of Environmental, Health and Safety, said, “This excellent achievement says a lot about the premium we put on safety and our commitment on maintaining safety on our jobsites. We continue to spread our message about safety in an increasingly engaging manner and look forward to even greater reduction in our work place injuries.”

About Liberty Mutual Group -- Boston-based Liberty Mutual Group is a diversified global insurer and fifth largest property and casualty insurer in the U.S. based on 2008 direct written premium. The Company also ranks 86th on the Fortune 500 list of largest corporations in the U.S. based on 2008 revenue. As of December 31, 2008, Liberty Mutual Group had $104.3 billion in consolidated assets, $94.2 billion in consolidated liabilities, and $28.9 billion in annual consolidated revenue.

Pike purchases Charlotte-based Facilities Planning and Siting (PLLC)

Expands Energy Solutions Portfolio

June 30, 2009

Pike Electric has purchased Facilities Planning & Siting, PLLC (FPS) based in Charlotte, North Carolina.

FPS combines the collective talents of civil engineers, GIS analysts, landscape architects, and environmental experts to develop site plans for utilities, cooperatives and municipalities with cutting-edge technology and a comprehensive siting procedure that fully integrates environmental, engineering, real estate, economic, regulatory and community considerations. FPS also provides measurements and predictions for the visual effects of future electrical transmission and substation projects, electrical distribution line projects, gas transmission projects and electrical generation projects, through proprietary software tools that determine views, build perspective models from selected viewpoints, create photo-realistic simulations and utilize a comprehensive rating model.

"The outstanding people and renowned reputation of FPS further enhances the services Pike offers customers through our portfolio of Energy Solutions. This acquisition allows us to provide services and value at the conceptual stages of our customer’s projects," said J. Eric Pike, Chairman and CEO at Pike.

Following the closing of the acquisition, Dwight Hollifield, the current president of FPS, will lead the facilities planning and siting services provided by Pike’s engineering group, and will be assisted in his efforts by all of the former employees of FPS.

Swine Flu Update

Pike's Customer and employee safety a top priority

April 30, 2009

Pike is working to minimize the effects of a pandemic* on Pike employees, as well as our customers, suppliers and the public.

Yesterday, the World Health Organization (WHO) elevated the Pandemic Level to Phase 5 but the US Federal Government Response Stage did not elevate and remains at Stage 2. Today the Secretaries of the Department of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services as well as the Acting Director of the Center for Disease Control held a webcast regarding the Swine Flu. Throughout the call they actively promoted the following good health habits to stop the spread of the virus

Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
Practice other good health habits.

Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Pike has activated our pandemic preparedness team and monitoring the recommendations of government organizations. We have plans in place to deal with a pandemic situation and to continue to protect our employees and serve our customers. For additional information, please refer to the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), and the US Government’s Official Pandemic Flu website (www.pandemicflu.gov).

Swine Flu Alert

Pike's Customer and employee safety a top priority

April 29, 2009

Yesterday, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued the following press release regarding the recent outbreak of swine influenza:

The current situation regarding the outbreak of swine influenza A(H1N1) is evolving rapidly. As of 27 April 2009, the United States Government has reported 40 laboratory confirmed human cases of swine influenza A(H1N1), with no deaths. Mexico has reported 26 confirmed human cases of infection with the same virus, including seven deaths. Canada has reported six cases, with no deaths, while Spain has reported one case, with no deaths.

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website (www.who.int) on a regular basis.

WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders. It is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities.

There is also no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products. Individuals are advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.

Pike is working directly with governmental and health officials to stay informed and to ensure that we are properly prepared in the event of any impact realized by the Swine Flu. The safety of our employees and our customers is our first priority. As such, we are continually monitoring and preparing for the potential impact of the swine flu and are taking steps to ensure the safety of our employees and continuity of our operations for our customers.

For additional information, please refer to the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), and the US Government’s Official Pandemic Flu website (www.pandemicflu.gov).

Ken Flechler to lead Pike’s Safety Organization

April 14, 2009

Safety expert joins as Vice President, Environmental, Health & Safety

Pike Electric is pleased to announce that Ken Flechler has joined the company as VP of Environmental, Health and Safety.

“We are excited to have Ken on the team,” said Eric Pike, Chairman and CEO at Pike. “His proven leadership in driving the development of effective safety programs and processes speaks to the core of our number one priority – the safety of our employees, customers and the public.” Flechler comes to Pike with more than 15 years progressive leadership experience in environmental, health and safety – most recently from COMCAST, where he served as Vice President, Safety & Compliance. From analysis of risks and liabilities to training and implementation, Flechler’s leadership resulted in a dramatic reduction of workplace injuries and vehicle accident rates.

“Ken’s hands-on experience in accident prevention and operational compliance is impressive, and his background in corporate environments with mergers, acquisitions, restructuring and organic growth is a good fit for our business strategy,” said Pike.

Flechler is currently on the National Safety Counsel’s Board of Directors. He has also served on committees with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Homeland Security’s Critical Infrastructure Protection Program.

In this newly expanded leadership role, Flechler will lead increased focus and development of safety programs for a safe and accident free work environment, including internal audits, safety investigations, and training, with a continuing emphasis on improving Pike’s safety culture.

CNBC - Eric Pike Rings the Bell for PBR at the New York Stock Exchange

January 8, 2009

CNBC interviews Eric Pike, CEO of Pike, following the ringing of the bell at the New York Stock Exchange for the Professionial Bull Riders Association (PBR). Pike is proud to be a sponsor of the 2009 PBR season.

Click here to view the video.

Pike’s Energy Solutions touted in all new, redesigned Pike.com!

January 23, 2009

Pike has a brand new corporate website to go with its new Energy Solutions business.

There’s a lot to talk about, now that our footprint stretches coast-to-coast, and the value we offer our clients and their customers is front-to-back, turn-key power solutions.

We want to make sure that people can understand what we’re doing – and find out more about it.

We’re really proud to be at the backbone of the energy industry – especially now, as more and more emphasis is on energy alternatives – and new ways to get power to people, while protecting the environment and saving money.

It feels good to be a part of that, as more focus turns to our country’s infrastructure, where we play such an important role.

You can read all about our Energy Solutions online. Right here. On our new corporate website. With easier to use features and updated information.

Plus, the pictures are cool.

Click on in. Welcome to Pike.