Puget Sound Energy held a well-publicized meeting in eastern King County last week to explain their response to the big December windstorm in that area, and to collect ideas from the public on how to do a better job in the future.

It was a fine and productive meeting, judging by the reports on TV and in the major Seattle dailies. But it left us wondering, why hasn’t Puget Sound Energy called a similar meeting for Whidbey Island residents?

This has been the worst winter in years in terms of power outages, and it isn’t over yet. Even last weekend a relatively minor storm knocked out power to hundreds of homes and businesses throughout the island, and another gusty day was predicted for this week before a freeze sets in.

Islanders have dozens of questions about the power outages. Here are just a few: Why so many outages? Why does it seemingly take so long to get crews on-site? What about burying power lines in some of the areas most susceptible to tree damage? What can be done to improve communications so people have a better idea of when their power will be restored?

Considering how vital a dependable supply of electricity is in today’s world, it’s remarkable how little the public hears from its power company. It’s time for PSE to come out and meet its customers. One recommendation for any executives coming over from Bellevue: Bring a flashlight.