electric grid Archives - State of the Planet

nissan leaf charging in a snowy parking lot

How Electric Vehicles Could Fix the Grid

Local governments and policymakers are anxious about the U.S. grid’s ability to withstand ever-increasing demand. Consumers could hold the key to an untapped resource.

by |May 11, 2022

How Utilities Can Help Communities Build Economic Resilience to Disasters: Part II

Given the essential role of the power grid, electric utilities are in a unique position to lead disaster mitigation and preparedness.

by Qëndresa Krasniqi, Ryan Burg, Renée Skeete and Jackie Ratner |October 8, 2021
solar panels on rooftop

Renewables Are Key to a Just Energy Future for Puerto Rico

FEMA’s $9.6 billion funding for electric system work in Puerto Rico presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the energy system, making it healthier for residents and more resilient against future disasters.

by Ruth Santiago and Michael B. Gerrard |July 15, 2021

Podcast Discusses New Book About the Quest for Renewable Energy

Award-winning investigative reporter Russell Gold discusses his new book, Superpower, in the latest episode of the Columbia Energy Exchange podcast.

by |July 12, 2019

Hope for a Decarbonized Future

A recent lecture offered an optimistic forecast for wind and solar energy, showing a glimpse into a future that doesn’t depend on fossil fuels.

by |October 30, 2018
Carlos Torres

The Difficulties of Restoring Power in Puerto Rico

Putting the lights back on in Puerto Rico was the most challenging mission of his career, says Carlos Torres in a new episode of the Columbia Energy Exchange podcast.

by |September 11, 2018
bruce walker

How the Department of Energy is Trying to Bolster U.S. Grid Resilience

In a new podcast episode, Bruce Walker from the U.S. Department of Energy discusses lessons learned from the devastating hurricane in Puerto Rico, the Trump Administration’s support for coal and nuclear plants, and more.

by |June 19, 2018
downed power lines

In Florida and Texas, Keeping the Lights on Means Planning for Climate Change

New York’s lessons from Hurricane Sandy can help in the wake of Harvey and Irma.

by |September 15, 2017
power lines at sunset

Climate Change Could Spell Trouble for Europe’s Electrical Grid

Peak demand for electricity is expected to shift from winter to summer, and from Northern Europe to the South—changes that could strain the region’s infrastructure.

by |August 28, 2017

We Need to Put All Coastal Electricity Underground — NOW

As shocking as the coastal devastation caused by Mega-Storm Sandy was, the prolonged electrical blackouts in the region were much more troubling. They never should have happened, and if any did, power should have been restored sooner.

by |December 28, 2012