12.12.2002 ET

(CSRwire) COLUMBUS, Ohio - American Electric Power (NYSE: AEP) has dispatched crews to North Carolina from Ohio and Indiana in an effort to help Duke Power restore service to thousands following this week’s damaging ice storm.

"Utilities have always helped their neighbors during situations like this," said Glenn Files, senior vice president - Distribution for American Electric Power. "We will do everything we can to assist Duke in their efforts to recover from damages caused by this devastating storm."

According to Files, more than 110 AEP employees with trucks and equipment left this afternoon for Charlotte, N.C., where they will be available to restore power and help clear fallen trees. The employees are based at various service centers in Ohio, Indiana and a portion of West Virginia.

"We recognize that our employees who volunteered for this effort will be away from their family and friends," said Files. "We appreciate their willingness to help and know they will do their jobs safely and effectively."

American Electric Power, an energy company with a balanced portfolio of energy assets, owns and operates more than 42,000 megawatts of generating capacity in the United States and select international markets and is the largest electricity generator in the U.S. AEP is a leading wholesale marketer of energy commodities, utilizing its energy expertise and risk management skills to make optimal use of its generation, natural gas pipeline systems, natural gas storage, coal mines and inland barge fleet. AEP is also one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, with almost 5 million customers linked to AEP’s 11-state electricity transmission and distribution grid. The company is based in Columbus, Ohio.

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