Creating A Resiliency Program: Combating Severe Weather – Playbook Review Part 3
In the previous post we discussed the importance of establishing program objectives. Now, we will discuss how to begin creating a resiliency program that supports those chosen objectives. The rationale for building resiliency programs can be driven by a wide range of factors, but a successful program will include steps to address the major causes of outages.
Severe Weather
Research has shown that severe weather events cause 90% of all outage minutes. Those interested in building an effective resiliency program should familiarize themselves with the current and potential weather hazards most prevalent in their geographic area. These different risk exposures will drive significantly different resiliency plans. Below is a list of resilience enhancement options, definitions, and examples.
Electric Utility Resilience Enhancement Options
Diversified and integrated grid: Transitioning of the grid from a centralized system to a decentralized generation and distribution system. Example: Integration of distributed generation sources, such as renewable energy sources and establishment of micro-grids.
Hardening: Physical changes that improve the durability and stability of specific pieces of infrastructure. Example: Raising and sealing water-sensitive equipment.
Maintenance and general readiness: Routine efforts to minimize or prevent outages. Example: Vegetation management and regular inspection and replacement of worn-out equipment.
Models: Mathematical constructs that provide information on performance and/or disruptions to aid in decision making. Example: Probabilistic risk models to assist in predicting outage impacts after an event.
Modernization: Technology and materials enhancements to create a more flexible and efficient grid. Example: Integration of smart-grid technologies, such as smart meters and phasor measurement units.
Redundancy: Measures to prepare for potential disruptions to service. Example: Maintenance of spare equipment, inventory, priority agreements with suppliers, and maintenance of a supply of backup generators.
Download the Playbook
Keep an eye out for our next post, which will discuss how to begin developing a resiliency program. We strongly encourage interested readers to download a free copy of PDi2‘s Utility Infrastructure Resiliency Playbook. This resource is designed to help utilities address obstacles they might face when developing resiliency programs. It includes more details on each step of developing a program, case studies, and links to additional resources.