Lubbock Power & Light has announced that it will join the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) over Memorial Day weekend (5/29–5/30).

During this period, affected customers can expect planned, temporary power outages. More Information

IT Tips to prepare for this outage:

• Ensure that your backups are working properly, and data can be restored if needed.
• If your technology equipment is connected directly to a wall outlet, power off and physically unplug all technology, electronics, and computing equipment prior to Saturday, 5/29, so power irregularities do not damage equipment. This includes computers, monitors, copiers, printers, televisions, audiovisual equipment, etc.
• If your technology equipment is connected to a power strip, with or without surge protection, power off and physically switch the power strip off.
• If your technology is connected to a UPS, we recommend powering off and physically unplugging equipment from standard UPSs to be safe as there are numerous factors that affect the effectiveness of UPS-powered equipment.
• If you are unable to unplug from the above locations or if it is more convenient, unplug at the equipment itself after powering off the system.
• Once power is fully restored, you may plug in your equipment or make arrangements in advance for someone to power up your equipment.
• Everyone is encouraged to check all their systems and equipment to make sure they restart properly.
• Once computing equipment is turned back on and the network is stable, remote access to desktop systems, if pre-planned and enabled, should be possible.
• Fully charge your mobile devices (phones, tablets, laptops, power bricks, etc.) prior to the switchover.
• Use the LP&L website to determine if/when your home will experience an electrical outage. Note: This information is only an estimate, and is subject to change based on the progress of the project.

Please monitor communications from local media for the latest information. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the impact to IT equipment, please contact your local IT expert or an area IT consultant. Some area IT consultants are listed online at http://cybersecurity.ttu.edu under "Additional Resources."