This Just In: Add Nukes, Solar Flares and Pandemic Disease to the List of Potential Threats to the Electric Grid

Cyber attacks and physical assaults on the electric grid aren't the only threats to grid reliability and security , says a new report issued by the Energy Department and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). Add high-altitude nuclear detonation, electromagnetic damage from extreme solar weather and pandemic disease to the list. The report outlines and defines these High-Impact, Low-Frequency (HILF) threats — meaning extremely rare — and urges a re-commitment between government and the electric industry to better prepare for them. While the threats are rare or yet to happen, consequences could be disastrous. The report says the vulnerabilities in the bulk power system need to be addressed with strong contingency plans and other steps.

Quick Take: We've been concentrating on cyber-security issues associated with the two-way communications and other connectivity features of the Smart Grid, and it's easy to put off once-in-a-lifetime threats for another day. But Mother Nature takes a back seat to no one when it comes to serving up massive disasters and the global political climate is shaky to say the least. While these threats may be long shots, isn't it best to be prepared for them?

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