Presentation | E-1: Transmission System Planning Performance Requirements for Extreme Weather; E-2: One-Time Reports on Extreme Weather Vulnerability Assessments

Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, leading to increased risks to energy infrastructure systems. To address these concerns, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) has proposed two new directives that aim to improve transmission system planning performance and enhance extreme weather vulnerability assessments.

The first directive, E-1, outlines specific requirements for transmission system planning in extreme weather conditions. The objective is to ensure that transmission operators are adequately prepared for any potential weather-related disruptions to electricity services. E-2, the second directive, requires transmission operators to conduct a one-time report on their system’s vulnerability to extreme weather events. The report should include an assessment of system weaknesses and proposed mitigation strategies to address the identified vulnerabilities.

Energy infrastructure systems are becoming increasingly vulnerable to the negative effects of climate change. Extreme weather events such as floods, hurricanes, and wildfires can cause power outages, damage electrical equipment, and disrupt energy supply chains. The proposed directives by NERC offer a potential solution to ensure energy infrastructure systems are better prepared to withstand future extreme weather events.

In conclusion, NERC’s proposed directives aim to improve the resiliency and reliability of energy infrastructure systems in the face of changing climate conditions. By setting specific performance requirements and conducting one-time vulnerability assessments, transmission operators can prepare for potential extreme weather events and mitigate potential disruptions to electricity services. As climate change continues to pose a threat to energy infrastructure systems, it is essential to implement solutions that can improve the safety and security of our electrical grids.