MARION, S.D.(WNAX)- We got a lesson about the Southwest Power Pool in February and how it impacts all of us when freezing weather in Texas forced rolling electric blackouts for many utilities in the northern plains.

Brad Schardin, Manager of Southeastern Electric in Marion, says the regional power producers have been working to avoid a repeat.

Schardin says the cold in February was historic.

Schardin says southern utilities need to do a better job of winterizing their facilities.

Schardin says northern power companies work to protect from extreme heat and cold affecting their systems and customers.