Grid Innovations

Are Solar Disturbances a Real Threat to the U.S. Grid?

June 21, 2019

Every decade or so, roughly corresponding to a real-world period of increased sunspot activity

Every decade or so, roughly corresponding to a real-world period of increased sunspot activity, we see predictions of disasters affecting everything from radio and other communication reception to electric power systems. The concern is stronger than normal magnetic activity on the sun and potential geomagnetic storms that could impact the earth. Well, grab your aluminum foil universal protective hat if you dare.

Content loading...

Note: A report concerning a modern-day version of potential magnetic disruption risks was just released by EPRI. The study addresses the risk of high-altitude electromagnetic pulses (HEMP) to the U.S. grid. See: https://www.epri.com/#/pages/summary/000000003002014979/?lang=en-US.

About the Author

David Shadle | Grid Optimization Editor

Dave joined the T&D World team as the editor of the Grid Optimization Center of Excellence website in January 2016.

Dave is a power industry veteran with a history of leading environmental and development organizations, championing crucial projects, managing major acquisitions and implementing change. Dave is currently a principal at Power Advance, LLC, an independent consulting firm specializing in power project development, research and analysis, due diligence and valuation support. Dave is also a contributing consultant for Transmission & Distribution World. Prior to Power Advance, Dave held business and power project development positions with The Louis Berger Group, Iberdrola Renewables, FPL Energy and General Public Utilities. He is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University, the New Jersey Institute of Technology and Purdue University.