Iowa’s two largest utility companies are being recognized for their work to help restore gas service to customers on the East Coast who were affected by Superstorm Sandy.

The Edison Electric Institute presented Alliant Energy Corp. and MidAmerican Energy Co. with its annual 2012 Emergency Assistance Award.

Alliant sent 215 employees and 138 contract line workers and tree crew members to assist with restoration efforts. Of the 215 employees, 114 were from Iowa.

MidAmerican Energy sent 29 Iowa employees and more than 250 contract line workers and tree crew members.