Electric Power Grids Under High-Absenteeism Pandemics: History, Context, Response, and Opportunities

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Electrical Engineering
• Sociology

Background:

• Pandemics pose significant threats to global health, economies, and societal stability.
• Modern societies heavily depend on interconnected critical infrastructure, especially electric power systems.
• Electric grids are vital for essential services like healthcare, communication, and water supply.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the multifaceted impacts of pandemics on global electric power grids.
• To share lessons learned and best practices from the electric industry's response to pandemic-induced disruptions.
• To outline future strategies for enhancing the resilience of electric grids against pandemics.

Main Methods:

• Review of pandemic-related disruptions to electric power generation and demand.
• Analysis of case studies and industry responses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Exploration of mechanisms influencing electric grid stability during health crises.

Main Results:

• Pandemics cause significant shifts in electricity demand and generation patterns.
• Mission-critical services require sustained, high-quality power supply during outbreaks.
• Effective pandemic response necessitates adaptive strategies within the electric industry.

Conclusions:

• The electric power grid is a critical national security asset vulnerable to pandemic threats.
• Lessons from COVID-19 highlight the need for proactive measures to ensure grid resilience.
• Future electric grids must be designed for enhanced robustness against widespread infectious disease outbreaks.