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Grid Vulnerable: Sun's Fury Could Cause Global Blackout
6 Feb
Summary
- Massive solar storms can induce currents that electrify the Earth's surface.
- A repeat of the 1859 Carrington Event could cause trillions in damages.
- Cost-effective devices can protect the grid, but deployment is slow.
The Earth's power grid faces an existential threat from powerful solar storms, reminiscent of the 1859 Carrington Event. These storms can induce currents that electrify the planet's surface, potentially damaging critical high-voltage transformers. Such an event today could trigger widespread blackouts lasting months or years, causing trillions of dollars in economic damage and untold loss of life.
Despite clear warnings and the availability of proven, cost-effective hardware solutions like neutral blocking devices, America's grid remains dangerously vulnerable. Utilities are hesitant to pass costs to consumers, and regulators rely on outdated standards that underestimate the risks. The long lead times for replacing damaged transformers, with most now manufactured overseas, further exacerbate the danger.
With the sun currently at the peak of its 11-year cycle and exhibiting increased activity, the risk is imminent. Swift action is needed from Congress, state legislatures, utilities, and regulators to mandate or incentivize grid resilience measures before a catastrophic solar event plunges civilization into a pre-industrial age.
