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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.

Gas Deal: Kudos to the Council & Correcting Misconceptions

Gas Deal: Kudos to the Council & Correcting Misconceptions

The City Council, the Utility, Cable, Telecommunications and Technology Committee has voted to approve Entergy New Orleans’ sale of their natural gas business to Bernhard Capital Partners, a Baton Rouge private equity firm. This is noteworthy because Entergy has had a monopoly on home heating and cooling for over 100 years. Change will be good for New Orleanians because it…
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December 18, 2024
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