In a recent analysis by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), it has been revealed that many regions in North America may confront electricity shortages starting in 2024. The report indicates that over 300 million people in the United States and Canada could be affected by potential power outages from 2024 to 2028. This alarming forecast is attributed to the escalating energy demand fueled by the tech industry and the widespread electrification of buildings and vehicles.

A concerning aspect contributing to this looming crisis is the surge in attacks on infrastructure, particularly the electrical grid. Notably, the United States experienced a notable increase in such attacks in 2022, with a staggering 77% rise in physical attacks, according to the Department of Energy. This trend adds another layer of complexity to the challenge, underscoring the critical need for bolstering the resilience of the power grid.

As dependence on electricity continues to intensify, regions across North America are grappling with the challenge of ensuring a reliable power supply. The NERC, responsible for overseeing the North American power grid, predicts that numerous regions in both the US and Canada will face inadequate electricity supply to meet the surging demand. This projection raises concerns about potential power outages across various sectors, posing a threat to residential, commercial, and industrial operations.

The NERC report underscores the urgency for substantial investments in power transformers and power infrastructure to address the anticipated electricity shortages. Vital measures include the upgrading and expansion of power generation and transmission systems to accommodate the growing energy demand. Simultaneously, exploring alternative energy sources and implementing energy conservation measures emerges as a crucial strategy to mitigate the impact of these potential shortages.

Source: newscientist.com