Building a more resilient grid

This technical analysis describes the role that distributed energy resources, such as home solar and batteries, can play in providing reliable electricity and reducing the threat of wildfire in California and other wildfire-prone areas. Today’s electric grid is energized by large power lines that deliver electricity across long distances from centralized power plants—many of which exacerbate climate change by using harmful fossil fuels. More than 70% of America’s transmission lines and large power transformers are at least 25 years old. The aging energy infrastructure is not equipped in many places to withstand the growing impacts of climate change.

Local distributed energy resources (DERs), such as home solar and batteries, can provide more resilient energy solutions in high-risk fire areas that are serviced by electric lines. DERs can reduce or outright prevent power outages for homes, businesses, and other critical facilities. Home solar and batteries can provide reliable energy and keep electricity running for energy users. This technology can also reduce the chances of electric sparks caused by a problem with overhead lines, which could result in dangerous wildfires.