Duquesne Light employees authorize strike

A workers union representing Duquesne Light employees voted Tuesday night to authorize a strike.

The 711-14 vote triggers the process for a potential walkout Saturday.

The union members’ current contract expires at the end of September, and the union is working to negotiate.

In a statement, Duquesne Light said it was “activating operational continuity plans in the event an agreement cannot be reached by when the current contract expires on Sept. 30.”

“Duquesne Light Company respects the right of our employees to bargain collectively and, as in previous contract years, we’re committed to a good-faith effort in reaching a fair and balanced agreement that meets the needs of our valued employees, customers, community and shareholders. While we cannot comment on contract negotiation specifics, the strike authorization vote is a procedural next step in the process and does not necessarily indicate a work stoppage,” the statement said.

The company said it appreciates its employees’ commitment to delivering safe, reliable electric service to its customers and for enabling Duquesne Light to remain a community partner in the region it’s served for more than 100 years.

Josh Ewing, the IBEW Local 29’s business manager, said in a statement Wednesday: “The union continues to negotiate, in good faith, to reach a fair and equitable agreement with Duquesne Light Company. IBEW 29 has no interest in negotiating this contract through the media.”

Duquesne Light workers threatened to walk out in 2019, but that strike was averted as the union and the company were able to reach a four-year tentative contract agreement.

According to its website, Duquesne Light serves more than 600,000 customers in southwestern Pennsylvania.