Vulnerabilities of Networked Energy Infrastructure : A Primer
Considerable work has been done to understand and improve the resilience of individual infrastructure components. However, systems of components, or even systems of systems, are far less well understood. Cascade effects, where the loss of one infra...
| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
|---|---|
| Format: | Working Paper |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
World Bank, Washington, DC
2019
|
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/453121560801490603/Vulnerabilities-of-Networked-Energy-Infrastructure-A-Primer http://hdl.handle.net/10986/31921 |
| Summary: | Considerable work has been done to
understand and improve the resilience of individual
infrastructure components. However, systems of components,
or even systems of systems, are far less well understood.
Cascade effects, where the loss of one infrastructure
affects others, is a major source of vulnerability which can
lead to catastrophic disruptions of essential services.
Interdependencies can also lead to large-scale failures when
even a single component is disrupted and results in
'cascading' failures within and between networks.
This is particularly true for power systems, as many other
lifeline infrastructure systems rely on electricity. In this
study we review the literature and give a primer on the
vulnerabilities of networked energy infrastructure. Several
recurrent themes emerge from across different systems: (1)
Electricity is essential for many lifeline infrastructure
systems to function; (2) Electrical distribution systems are
particularly vulnerable to disruption from natural and
manmade hazards; (3) Highly networked systems can be
unstable even when their individual components are
functioning as intended; (4) Redundancy and network density
can increase reliability but also increase the likelihood of
cascade effects when failures do occur; (5) Disruption of
ports and roads can limit fuel supplies for generators and
replacement components. Based on these insights, this study
offers suggestions for further research and policy actions. |
|---|