Following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in the Carolinas, Duke Energy faced significant challenges with 370 of its substations being knocked out of service. The damage caused by the storm left many customers without power, prompting the energy provider to take swift action to restore services.
Bill Norton from Duke Energy highlighted the extent of the damage, mentioning that entire substations were submerged under water. In response to the situation, the company has begun installing mobile substations to expedite the restoration process.
These mobile units, each weighing 200,000 pounds, are a crucial part of Duke Energy's storm response strategy. With a fleet of dozens of mobile substations at their disposal, the energy provider is equipped to address emergencies efficiently.
Jeff Brooks, a spokesperson for Duke Energy, emphasized the importance of deploying mobile substations in areas where substations require extensive rebuilding. By utilizing these temporary units, Duke Energy can focus on other repairs that may not have quick-fix solutions.
Bringing in mobile substations is no small feat, as their size and weight necessitate careful planning and coordination with state and local authorities. Duke Energy works diligently to ensure that paths are clear for the units to reach their designated locations, including conducting engineering studies to assess road conditions.
Brooks underscored the collaborative effort required to respond effectively to a major storm, referring to it as an 'electric army.' The deployment of mobile substations in Buncombe County, North Carolina, signifies Duke Energy's commitment to restoring power swiftly and efficiently in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
