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Welcome to the Bayou blog

Providing insights, commentary and research in support of critical electrical grid upgrades in New Orleans to best ensure the Crescent City remains a vital place to live and work.

The False Dilemma About NOLA’s Trees Energy VulnerabilityPower LinesUtility poles

The False Dilemma About NOLA’s Trees

Our tree canopy and power reliability can co-exist. New Orleans’ tree canopy is lushly filled out by beautiful, old oaks, magnolias, pecans, and many other varieties. Beyond aesthetics, the trees offer real financial benefits like decreasing heat island effects, mitigating flooding, and capturing carbon emissions. Yet, maintaining that canopy has presented a challenge when it comes to keeping the lights…
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September 27, 2024
Francine’s Post-Mortem – New Orleans Needs Resilience Goals Energy Vulnerability

Francine’s Post-Mortem – New Orleans Needs Resilience Goals

Hurricane Francine, though only a Category 1 storm, was a stark reminder that New Orleans’ infrastructure has vulnerabilities. Entergy reported that 32 transmission lines and 25 substations across Louisiana and Mississippi were impacted, with Southeast Louisiana being the hardest hit. Parts of New Orleans flooded due to water pump failures. Although Entergy quickly restored service following the storm, the overall…
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September 19, 2024
Francine’s Sinister Vibes No Match for NOLA’s Chill Energy Vulnerability

Francine’s Sinister Vibes No Match for NOLA’s Chill

Well, that time of year has finally arrived. The dreaded August to September hurricane danger zone. I’ve had to talk several friends off the PTSD cliff, assuring them: “She’s only predicted to get up to Cat 1, maybe Cat 2. This is not a Hurricane Katrina situation.” But as Francine tracks towards New Orleans, I can’t help but reflect on…
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September 10, 2024
The Art of the Possible: Grid Resilience Lessons from Florida Power Grids

The Art of the Possible: Grid Resilience Lessons from Florida

In the battle against increasingly severe storms, the resilience of our power grid has become a central issue for states like Florida and Louisiana. While both states face similar weather-related challenges – monster-sized hurricanes – Florida took a different path. The Sunshine State made a conscientious effort to evolve its grid into a model of resilience. Now, their grid can…
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September 6, 2024