GREENSBURG, Pa., Jan. 6, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- West 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, @W_Penn_Power, to provide customers with important information related to their electric service.

"Social media has become a vital part of West Penn Power's communication with customers, local officials and media, particularly during major weather events," said David W. McDonald, president of West 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 West Penn Power Facebook page by visiting www.facebook.com/WestPennPower. 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 West Penn Power supports the communities it serves
    --  View photos and videos from West Penn Power-sponsored community
        initiatives and infrastructure projects taking place across the service
        territory

The launch of the Facebook page is the latest in West Penn Power's ongoing effort to provide proactive information to customers using a variety of platforms. In addition to social media, West 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 West Penn Power smartphone app for Apple(®) iPhone(®) and Android(TM) devices.

West Penn Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE), serves about 720,000 customers in 24 Pennsylvania counties. Connect with West Penn Power on Twitter @W_Penn_Power and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WestPennPower.

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

www.firstenergycorp.com

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SOURCE FirstEnergy Corp.