In the wake of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green) questioned witnesses on the importance of modernizing and updating the nation’s electric grid at an Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy hearing on Thursday. Representatives from the Department of Energy, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and additional experts testified and provided an update on efforts to restore energy in Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico, and other areas impacted by recent hurricanes. Latta highlighted that places that had modernized their electric grids using new technology were much more likely to see their energy restored in a shorter timeframe.
“As we’ve seen in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico, the devastation inflicted by natural disasters isn’t just limited to the event itself, the recovery can take weeks, months, and even years,” said Latta. “A major factor in getting damaged areas up and running again is the resiliency of their energy systems. I’ve long advocated for updating our nation’s electric grid for purposes that go far beyond just natural disasters, including improved security and better efficiency. However, the recent storms show just how imperative it is that we incorporate new technologies and modernize our energy infrastructure.”
