INTRODUCTION Targeted resiliency programs using undergrounding strategies can deliver significant benefits and value. Emerging technologies and material advances now make underground electric distribution even more safe, reliable, and resilient. Initial construction costs of undergrounding are coming down with these improved materials and 21st Century construction methods. And today, the life-cycle benefits of undergrounding are being clearly documented in many industry reports and several utility pilot projects. More valuable system and empirical cost data will come from these projects and programs. In the meantime, why should you wait? Each section of the Playbook is dedicated to important project development steps and team members. While you may not be responsible for all these steps, the Playbook is designed to guide you through the entire “development” process. Approach your regulator now with the concept of strategic undergrounding, and you will better serve your customers, improve your communities, and satisfy the shareholder, all in one responsible move. This Utility Infrastructure Resiliency Playbook (Playbook) is designed to help you identify and meet the challenges of introducing the idea of undergrounding strategies to your company. It is presented in a modular format to facilitate the sharing of individual sections with various parties or stakeholders interested in electric infrastructure undergrounding. The eight development steps include: 1. Defining Program Objectives 2. Creating a Resiliency Program 3. Developing the Program Plan 4. Obtaining Approval 5. Implementation A. Communication Strategy B. Contractor Strategy C. Program KPIs 6. Reporting Program Progress 7. Evaluating Overall Program Success 8. Other Implementation Issues Please see the flow chart on the next page for a graphic representation of the process. The Playbook is a rich resource. The bibliography details a comprehensive list of articles, research papers, and other informative literature on the topics of reliability, resiliency, hardening, and undergrounding. Throughout the Playbook, reference numbers are provided pointing to a specific article, research paper, or other literature where content is quoted or used to build a key point. Use the case study examples presented in this Playbook as a guide to developing your own successful program. These case studies will reinforce key learning points and serve as a guide to you and your team as you consider resiliency programs with undergrounding strategies. Please use this Playbook with our compliments as you explore the development and implementation of resiliency programs and undergrounding strategies that deliver significant benefits now and in the years to come.
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