Optimising Equipment Operation for Warmer Temperatures

Summary

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) provides natural gas and electric power to 15 million people in northern and central California. In 2008, PG&E convened a science team to evaluate global climate-related risks, assess climate change modelling, and identify best adaptation practices for the company’s assets. Some equipment in the company’s substations was assessed to be vulnerable to increasing temperatures. Therefore, PG&E worked with the equipment manufacturer’s engineers on the development of operating practices to reduce the vulnerability of substations to climate change impacts. 

Key take-away

Low-cost adaptation options during the asset life can trigger benefits in a climate change context, and are easy to finance and implement.

Further reading

Energy Infrastructure Risks and Adaptation Efforts