Power Outage

Although power outages have become much less frequent in modern times, they can and will occur on occasion. Not only might these scenarios prove to be rather frustrating, but they are instances when a power outage can lead to other concerns (such as hampered communications between emergency services or life-saving equipment that fails to function).

This article will examine several issues that can be caused by a power outage as well as some of the technologies that are now being used to address these situations in order to ensure that vital services remain available to the general public.

A Typical Power Outage Meaning

What does the term "power outage" actually refer to? The most standard definition of a power outage involves the loss of electrical power for a specific period of time.^[1] This can occur at a local level or it may instead be associated with widespread effects. One of the most well-known examples of a large-scale power outage can be seen in the New York Blackout of 1977. This power outage lasted for more than 25 hours and it was apparently triggered by a lightning storm.^[2]

So, it is therefore clear that even larger areas can suffer from an unexpected power outage on occasion. In order to prepare for such an eventuality, it is important to take a look at a handful of additional variables. We can then discuss some of the ways in which SFC Energy aims to protect consumers from a power outage with the help of our cutting-edge fuel cell technology.

What Might Cause a Power Outage?

There are a number of factors which can eventually lead to an electricity power outage. One situation could involve a grid that uses outdated and/or poorly serviced equipment. In this scenario, even a relatively small issue (such as an overload) may lead to a cascading power outage; impacting numerous customers simultaneously.

A power outage may also be initiated by severe weather. Lightning may cause a substation breaker to trip. High winds could topple trees. Heavy rains might inundate a dedicated electricity generation station. These can sometimes lead to a local power outage (generally resolved within a relatively short period of time).

Having said this, a handful of other variables could lead to power networks outages and some of these are more preventable than others. Examples include:^[3]

• Construction work.
• Intentional public damage resulting in a regional power outage.
• Interference caused by wildlife.
• A power outage resulting from a motor vehicle accident.
• A high demand for energy that the network cannot address.

It should also be mentioned that cyberattacks have become an increasingly realistic (and serious) threat in recent times. An organised digital assault on an electrical grid may lead to grave consequences and in some cases, even result in a national grid power outage.

How is an Electrical Grid Protected from a Power Outage?

There are several safeguards in place that are used to decrease the chances of suffering a power outage. In terms of local and regional distribution, a series of high-voltage fuses are linked to the system. In the event of a sudden surge, one or more fuses will "trip"; intentionally causing a power outage and protecting equipment from further damage. The fuse can then be replaced once the fault is discovered.

Power grids will also employ lightning rods. These tall metal poles are used to attract lightning and to redirect this source of energy directly into the ground. The main goal here is to ensure that equipment such as step-down transformers and vital insulators are not damaged.

Main electricity suppliers likewise employ highly advanced real-time monitoring equipment to mitigate the chances of a power outage. These systems can predict peak usage times and adjust electrical output as may be required (particularly during the warmer months of the year). Such networks are often backed up by an uninterruptible power supply; ensuring that they will remain functional even in the event of an on-site power outage.

What Can Consumers Do to Protect Themselves from a Power Outage?

Knowing how to prep for power outage events is quite important; particularly for business owners and those with families. The good news is that there are numerous steps which can be taken. One common solution involves purchasing a generator for house power outages. These units consume diesel fuel or petrol and as a result, they can provide energy to essential equipment (such as a refrigerator or an air conditioning system). Modern generators for power may sometimes employ a methanol or a hydrogen fuel cell; a much greener form of energy.

However, are there any seasonally oriented suggestions to keep in mind? Here are some professional recommendations when preparing for a power outage:^[4]

• Stock a supply of food and fresh drinking water.
• Purchase gas-powered stoves and heaters (important for knowing how to prep for power outages in winter).
• Install a wood-burning or biomass fireplace to heat your home if a power outage occurs.
• Keep a torch and a backup mobile phone on hand.
• Obtain a battery-powered radio to listen for important government updates (associated with a large-scale disaster such as a hurricane or an earthquake).

Obtaining Help in the Event of a Power Outage

It is first important to determine the cause of the power outage. So, try to contact your energy supplier to determine if it is a local or a regional fault. If you are able to obtain Internet access, post a general question such as "why are we having power outages" followed by the area of your residency. Additional information may be available. Should you instead require official assistance, contact your local police or fire department. They will provide additional advice.

What Power Outage Solutions Does SFC Energy Provide?

While it is impossible to avoid a power outage, there are many ways in which consumers can cope with their effects. SFC Energy supplies hydrogen and DMFC fuel cells (such as the EFOY Pro and the EFOY Hydrogen Fuel Cell). The main intention is to provide our customers with real-world solutions that are both reliable and environmentally friendly.

We have already distributed more than 65,000 of these products within both commercial and residential marketplaces. Would you like to learn more about how to deal with a power outage? Are you curious to discover our additional services? Please take a moment to speak with an SFC representative. We are always happy to help.