The coming storm: Building electricity resilience to extreme weather

This report explores the resilience of the power system as a whole and promotes a proactive approach to climate change adaptation of the power sector. The European power system is facing unprecedented challenges. COVID-19 challenged how staff and systems worked together and the Russian invasion of Ukraine has sparked an unprecedented energy crisis across Europe. The way out of this major crisis requires decisive action to shift away from imported fossil fuels. Electrification, allowing us to regain our energy independence, must become the norm – and it must go with guarantees on the reliability of the electricity system.

Some of the biggest impacts of extreme weather affect transmission and distribution systems. Overhead power lines are exposed to high winds, when trees and other vegetation can collide with them, resulting in physical damage and electrical faults. The joints and insulation of underground cables are put under strain during heat waves, especially during sustained heat over several days. Substations, if not well located or sufficiently protected, can be damaged by floods. Wildfires, floods, and high winds can limit the ability of staff to safely access substations and other assets. From a customer perspective, increased electrification puts more focus on resilience and reliability of the electricity system, with the rollout of EVs, heat pumps, and industrial electrification. Customers can also support the grid during extreme weather events with innovations in flexible markets and microgrids.