In an era where energy systems face increasing vulnerability due to extreme weather events, KEMA Labs Chalfont stands at the forefront of ensuring resilience and safety. The question of whether our power grids can withstand the growing impacts of climate change has become ever more pressing. Recent incidents, particularly in Western Europe and North Africa, offer little reassurance. For instance, during the cold front that swept across Europe in January 2017, the power system narrowly avoided blackouts, thanks to close coordination among transmission system operators (TSOs) and cross-border energy transfers. For several days, the interconnected European grid operated with dangerously low security margins.
The 2018 California wildfires underscored this vulnerability. A historic heatwave and drought led to a series of devastating fires, including the infamous Camp Fire, the deadliest and most destructive in California’s history. The cause? A lack of maintenance on electric transmission infrastructure. This tragic event became a wake-up call for global power companies, highlighting the crucial need for thorough testing, meticulous equipment selection, and routine maintenance of transmission and distribution networks.
Recognizing the stakes, Hubbell Incorporated, a global leader in energy system components, turned to KEMA Labs Chalfont to help mitigate future risks. Hubbell sought to comply with strict new regulations established by California’s Department of Forests and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), aimed at preventing fires caused by power lines. At KEMA Labs Chalfont, the testing focused on surge protection devices installed along transmission lines in high-risk fire zones. The aim was to demonstrate that these devices, equipped with specific selectors, could effectively control short circuits, sparks, and overheating, all of which are critical in preventing the ignition of flammable vegetation in vulnerable areas.
Thanks to the successful outcomes of these rigorous tests, Hubbell was able to present a comprehensive report to Cal Fire, confirming that the previous issues had been fully resolved. This case not only highlights the technical expertise of KEMA Labs Chalfont but also reinforces the vital role that advanced testing plays in safeguarding electrical networks against the increasing threats posed by climate change. As extreme weather events grow in both frequency and intensity, KEMA Labs Chalfont continues to lead the way in developing solutions that enhance the resilience of energy systems worldwide.
