Power Grid Resilience: Surviving Extreme Heat and Ensuring Security

The U.S. power grid has managed to withstand extreme heat and remain mostly intact during this summer, thanks in part to the increased use of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, as well as the continued reliance on natural gas and coal plants. However, experts warn that the grid's stability cannot be guaranteed as climate change continues to worsen. The grid operators and utilities have made improvements in preparation for extreme weather, but luck has also played a role in the grid's performance this summer. As hotter summers are predicted in the future, challenges such as climate conditions that hinder renewable energy output and increased power demand from electric vehicles and appliances could further strain the electricity supply.