AKRON, Ohio, Jan. 6, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Penn Power is expanding its social media presence with the launch of its Facebook page. The new page builds on the company's successful Twitter account, @Penn_Power, to provide customers with important information related to their electric service.

"Social media has become a vital part of Penn Power's communication with customers, local officials and media, particularly during major weather events," said Randall A. Frame, regional president of Ohio Edison and Penn Power. "Twitter has proven to be an effective tool for sharing information and engaging with customers, and we are excited about increasing our communication opportunities through Facebook."

Customers are encouraged to like the Penn Power Facebook page by visiting www.facebook.com/PennPower. By connecting, customers can:


    --  View updates and important information during major outages, such as the
        company's storm preparation plans, tips for safely managing through a
        power outage and restoration information
    --  Easily report a power disruption directly through the Facebook page by
        clicking on the "Report an Outage" tab and entering the phone number
        associated with the customer's account
    --  Learn about system enhancements and maintenance, including tree
        trimming, substation work, utility pole replacements and more
    --  Receive energy efficiency and electrical safety tips
    --  Learn about ways Penn Power supports the communities it serves
    --  View photos and videos from Penn Power-sponsored community initiatives
        and infrastructure projects taking place across the service territory

The launch of the Facebook page is the latest in Penn Power's ongoing effort to provide proactive information to customers using a variety of platforms. In addition to social media, Penn Power customers can subscribe to alert notifications via email or text message that contain billing reminders, weather alerts in advance of severe storms, or updates on scheduled or extended power outages. Customers also can use two-way text messaging to report outages, request updates on restoration efforts and make other inquiries about their electric accounts.

The company also provides comprehensive outage information through its 24/7 Power Center map and on its website, which is optimized for mobile phones. Additionally, customers can download the Penn Power smartphone app for Apple(®) iPhone(®) and Android(TM) devices.

Penn Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE), serves more than 160,000 customers in all or parts of Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Crawford, Lawrence, and Mercer counties in western Pennsylvania. Connect with Penn Power on Twitter @Penn_Power and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PennPower.

Apple and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Android is a trademark of Google Inc.

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SOURCE FirstEnergy Corp.