The reliability of power over the past 15 years has been strained by increased demand by growing populations, aging infrastructure and more frequent occurrences of extreme weather. As seen in bar graph [a] on the right, the number of weather-related power outages has doubled every five years since 2000. Although the timing of when these outages happen fluctuates from day to day, season to season, and year to year, the data shows that weather-related power outages are steadily on the rise.
The estimated costs of weather-related power outages, by year, are provided in graph [b]. The variations in cost change considerably year to year. These cost estimates are dominated by the impact of large storms and the numerous costs associated with power outages. These costs include lost output and wages, spoiled inventory, inconvenience and the cost of restarting industrial operations. Although weather is a major factor in the cost of power, the costs associated with power outages are influenced by the amount of time that the power is out as well. The pie chart [c] shows the average length of reported power outages in the digital economy, continuous process manufacturing and fabrication/essential services sectors of the economy. Regardless of what industry your business is in, the longer the power is out the more money you are losing.
As the climate changes and infrastructure ages, the economic and social impacts of power outages may be unavoidable. However, the effects can be mitigated by being diligent and taking appropriate steps to minimize operational downtime. ESL’s emergency power connection equipment is very cost-effective, especially when compared to the cost of being without power for extended periods of time. In addition, our emergency power products provide users with safe and simple operation so that grid-tied facilities can quickly connect to portable power when it matters most.
For more information on how ESL can help you be prepared for the next major power outage, contact us.
Sources:
1-Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters
2-Power Outages On The Rise Across The U.S.
3-Economic Benefits of Increasing Electric Grid Resilience to Weather Related Outages
4-The Cost of Power Disturbances to Industrial & Digital Economy Companies