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BWI Power Outage caused flight delays, cancellations, and diversions after a downed power line near Baltimore/Washington International. BGE crews responded as terminal operations, security screening, and boarding slowed, exposing infrastructure gaps and backup power needs.

Key Points

A downed power line disrupted BWI, causing delays, diversions, and slowed operations after power was restored by noon.

✅ Downed power line near airport spurred terminal-wide disruptions

✅ 150+ delays, dozens of cancellations; diversions to nearby airports

✅ BGE response, backup power gaps highlight infrastructure resilience

On the morning of March 3, 2025, a major power outage at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) caused significant disruptions to air travel, much like the London morning outage that upended routines, affecting both departing and incoming flights. The outage, which began around 7:40 a.m., was caused by a downed power line near the airport, according to officials from Baltimore Gas and Electric Company. Although power was restored by noon, the effects were felt for several hours, resulting in flight delays, diversions, and a temporary disruption to airport operations.

Flight Disruptions and Delays

The outage severely impacted operations at BWI, with more than 150 flights delayed and dozens more canceled. The airport, which serves as a major hub for both domestic and international travel, was thrown into chaos, similar to the Atlanta airport blackout that snarled operations, as power outages affected various critical areas, including parts of the main terminal and an adjacent parking garage. The downed power line created a ripple effect throughout the airport’s operations, delaying not only the check-in and security screening processes but also the boarding of flights. In addition to the delays, some inbound flights had to be diverted to nearby airports, further complicating an already strained travel schedule.

With the disruption affecting vital functions of the airport, passengers were advised to stay in close contact with their airlines for updated flight statuses and to prepare for longer-than-usual wait times.

Impact on Passengers

As power began to return to different parts of the terminal, airport officials reported that airlines were improvising solutions to continue the deplaning process, such as using air stairs to help passengers exit planes that were grounded due to the power outage, a reminder of how transit networks can stall during grid failures, as seen with the London Underground outage that frustrated commuters. This created further delays for passengers attempting to leave the airport or transfer to connecting flights.

Many passengers, who were left stranded in the terminal, faced long lines at ticket counters, security checkpoints, and concessions as the airport worked to recover from the loss of power, a situation mirrored during the North Seattle outage that affected thousands. The situation was compounded by the fact that while power was restored by midday, the airport still struggled to return to full operational capacity, creating significant inconvenience for travelers.

Power Restoration and Continued Delays

By around noon, officials confirmed that power had been fully restored across the main terminal. However, the full return to normalcy was far from immediate. Airport staff continued to work on clearing backlogs and assisting passengers, but the effects of the outage lingered throughout the day. Passengers were warned to expect continued delays at ticket counters, security lines, and concessions as the airport caught up with the disruption caused by the morning’s power outage.

For many travelers, the experience was a reminder of how dependent airports and airlines are on uninterrupted power to function smoothly. The disruption to BWI serves as a case study in the potential vulnerabilities of critical infrastructure that is not immune to the effects of power failure, including weather-driven events like the windstorm outages that can sever lines. Moreover, it highlights the difficulties of recovering from such incidents while managing the expectations of a large number of stranded passengers.

Investigations into the Cause of the Outage

As of the latest reports, Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE) crews were still investigating the cause of the power line failure, including weather-related factors seen when strong winds in the Miami Valley knocked out power. While no definitive cause had been provided by early afternoon, BGE spokesperson Stephanie Weaver confirmed that the company was working diligently to restore service. She noted that the downed line had caused widespread disruptions to electrical service in the area, which were exacerbated by the airport’s significant reliance on a stable power supply.

BWI officials remained in close contact with BGE to monitor the situation and ensure that necessary precautions were taken to prevent further disruptions. With power largely restored by midday, focus turned to the logistical challenges of clearing the resulting delays and assisting passengers in resuming their travel plans.

Response from the Airport and Airlines

In response to the power outage, BWI officials encouraged travelers to remain patient, a familiar message during prolonged events like Houston's extended outage in recent months, and continue checking their flight statuses. Although flight tracking websites and social media posts provided timely updates, passengers were urged to expect long delays throughout the day as the airport struggled to return to full capacity.

Airlines, for their part, worked swiftly to accommodate affected passengers, although the situation created a ripple effect across the airport's operations. With delayed flights and diverted planes, air traffic control and ground crews had to adjust flight schedules accordingly, resulting in even more congestion at the airport. Airlines coordinated with the airport to prioritize urgent cases, and some flights were re-routed to other nearby airports to mitigate the strain on the terminal.

Long-Term Effects on Airport Infrastructure

This incident underscores the importance of maintaining resilient infrastructure at key transportation hubs like BWI. Airports are vital nodes in the air travel network, and any disruption, whether from power failure or other factors, can have far-reaching consequences on both domestic and international travel. Experts suggest that BWI and other major airports should consider implementing backup power systems and other safeguards to ensure that they can continue to function smoothly during unforeseen disruptions.

While BWI officials were able to resolve the situation relatively quickly, the power outage left many passengers frustrated and inconvenienced. This incident serves as a reminder of the need for airports and utilities to have robust contingency plans in place to handle emergencies and prevent delays from spiraling into more significant disruptions.

The power outage at Baltimore/Washington International Airport highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to power failures and the cascading effects such disruptions can have on travel. Although power was restored by noon, the delays, diversions, and logistical challenges faced by passengers underscore the need for greater resilience in airport operations. With travel back on track, BWI and other airports will likely revisit their contingency plans to ensure that they are better prepared for future incidents that could affect air travel.

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Extreme Heat and Rising Electricity Bills amplify energy costs as climate change drives air conditioning demand, stressing the power grid and energy affordability, with low income households facing outsized burdens during prolonged heat waves.

Key Points

Heat waves from climate change raise AC demand, driving up electricity costs and straining energy affordability.

✅ More AC use spikes electricity demand during heat waves

✅ Low income households face higher energy burden

✅ Grid reliability risks rise with peak cooling loads

Extreme heat waves are not only straining public health systems but also having a significant impact on household finances, particularly through rising electricity bills. According to a recent AP-NORC poll, a growing number of Americans are feeling the financial pinch as soaring temperatures drive up the cost of cooling their homes. This development underscores the broader implications of climate change and its effects on everyday life.

The AP-NORC poll highlights that a majority of Americans are experiencing increased electricity costs as a direct result of extreme heat. As temperatures climb, so does the demand for air conditioning and other cooling systems. This increased energy consumption is contributing to higher utility bills, which can put additional strain on household budgets.

Extreme heat waves have become more frequent and intense due to climate change, which has led to a greater reliance on air conditioning to maintain comfortable indoor environments. Air conditioners and fans work harder during heat waves, and wasteful air conditioning can add around $200 to summer bills, consuming more electricity and consequently driving up energy bills. For many households, particularly those with lower incomes, these increased costs can be a significant burden.

The poll reveals that the impact of rising electricity bills is widespread, affecting a diverse range of Americans. Households across different income levels and geographic regions are feeling the heat, though the extent of the financial strain can vary. Lower-income households are particularly vulnerable, as they often have less flexibility in their budgets to absorb higher utility costs. For these families, the choice between cooling their homes and other essential expenses can be a difficult one.

In addition to financial strain, the poll highlights concerns about energy affordability and access. As electricity bills rise, some Americans may face challenges in paying their bills, leading to potential utility shut-offs or the need to make difficult choices between cooling and other necessities. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that many utility companies do not offer sufficient assistance or relief programs to help low-income households manage their energy costs.

The increasing frequency of extreme heat events and the resulting spike in electricity consumption also have broader implications for the energy infrastructure. Higher demand for electricity can strain power grids, as seen when California narrowly avoided blackouts during extreme heat, potentially leading to outages or reduced reliability. Utilities and energy providers may need to invest in infrastructure upgrades and maintenance to ensure that the grid can handle the increased load during heat waves.

Climate change is a key driver of the rising temperatures that contribute to higher electricity bills. As global temperatures continue to rise, extreme heat events are expected to become more common and severe, and experts warn the US electric grid was not designed to withstand these impacts. This trend underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to address both the causes and consequences of climate change. Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy efficiency, and invest in renewable energy sources are critical components of a broader climate action plan.

Energy efficiency measures can play a significant role in mitigating the impact of extreme heat on electricity bills. Upgrading to more efficient cooling systems, improving home insulation, and adopting smart thermostats can help reduce energy consumption and lower utility costs. Additionally, utility companies and government programs can offer incentives and rebates, including ways to tap new funding that help encourage energy-saving practices and support households in managing their energy use.

The poll also suggests that there is a growing awareness among Americans about the connection between climate change and rising energy costs. Many people are becoming more informed about the ways in which extreme weather events and rising temperatures impact their daily lives. This increased awareness can drive demand for policy changes and support for initiatives aimed at addressing climate change and improving energy efficiency, with many willing to contribute income to climate efforts, about the connection between climate change and rising energy costs.

In response to the rising costs and the impact of extreme heat, there are calls for policy interventions and support programs to help manage energy affordability. Proposals include expanding assistance programs for low-income households, investing in infrastructure improvements, and promoting energy efficiency initiatives alongside steps to make electricity systems more resilient to climate risks. By addressing these issues, policymakers can help alleviate the financial burden on households and support a more resilient and sustainable energy system.

Debates over policy impacts on electricity prices continue; in Alberta, federal policies are blamed by some for higher rates, illustrating how regulation can affect affordability.

In conclusion, the AP-NORC poll highlights the growing financial impact of extreme heat on American households, with rising electricity bills being a significant concern for many. The increased demand for cooling during heat waves is straining household budgets and raising broader questions about energy affordability and infrastructure resilience. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including efforts to combat climate change, improve energy efficiency, and provide support for those most affected by rising energy costs. As extreme heat events become more common, finding solutions to manage their impact will be crucial for both individual households and the broader energy system.

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PG&E power restoration continues across Butte and Yuba counties after PSPS shut-offs from high winds and dry weather, with crews patrolling overhead lines, repairing damage, and reopening community resource centers near Lake Berryessa.

Key Points

PG&E power restoration safely re-energizes lines after PSPS, using inspections and repairs to restore service.

✅ Crews patrolled 800 miles of overhead lines for hazards

✅ Repairs followed wind damage; gradual re-energization

✅ Resource centers offered water, outlets, air conditioning

Pacific Gas and Electric Co. field crews have begun restoring power to approximately 20,500 customers in Butte and Yuba counties after the utility shut off electricity to reduce wildfire risk because of gusty winds and dry weather conditions.

More than half of the affected customers had electricity again as of 1:47 p.m. Sunday, according to PG&E, and by 4 p.m. all of Yuba County power had been restored.

The utility also cut electricity for about 1,600 customers in parts of Napa, Solano and Yolo counties, primarily in the Lake Berryessa area, in a PSPS event separate from statewide grid conservation alerts that can trigger rolling blackouts. Power to those areas was switched off at 6:15 a.m. Saturday but was restored by the evening.

As the danger subsided Sunday, utility workers, as part of PG&E's local response planning for winter storms, worked throughout Butte and Yuba counties to re-energize power lines. The shut-offs affected areas including eastern Chico, Oroville and fire-ravaged Paradise.

Technicians checked lines for damage or fire hazards, like vegetation that could interfere with live wires, Pasion said, as part of broader pandemic grid preparedness that informed utility protocols.

PG&E “patrolled approximately 800 miles of overhead power lines,” the company said in a statement. “Crews found instances of damage to de-energized equipment caused by the extreme weather event and are making necessary repairs.”

While the shut-offs inconvenienced businesses and homeowners, they also highlighted energy inequality across impacted neighborhoods, and some called 911 with emergencies and confusion.

A half hour into the shut-off Saturday night, Butte County sheriff’s dispatchers received a call from a person requesting a welfare check on an individual whose care required electricity, according to department call logs. Two calls overnight from the Magalia area requested medical assistance because residents had oxygen concerns for medically sensitive spouses.

One woman requested an ambulance because her “husband was running out of oxygen,” according to the logs.

Around 4:11 a.m. Sunday, a resident of Hidden Valley Mobile Home Park in Oroville called about a tree falling into a trailer, causing a power line to fall, but noted that the electricity was off.

In a comparable storm-related outage, Sudbury Hydro crews worked to reconnect service after severe weather in Ontario.

And there were multiple calls asking for information about the shut-off, including one caller around midnight who was “demanding PG&E turn his power back on.”

The calls led the Butte County Sheriff’s Office to tweet a reminder Sunday afternoon that 911 is reserved for emergencies and requests for information about the power shutdown should be done through PG&E.

The utility opened a community resource center at Harrison Stadium in Oroville (Butte County) on Sunday morning to provide restrooms, bottled water, power outlets and air conditioning to residents. About 40 people showed up at the center in the first few hours, officials said.

“It’s a small but steady stream,” Pasion said.

Power was being restored to parts of Oroville as of 11 a.m. Sunday.

PG&E officials said it could take up to 48 hours for power to be restored in some areas.

For perspective, during severe storms in Ontario, Hydro One crews restored power to more than 277,000 customers within days.

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Electrical Grounding and Bonding NEC 250 Training equips electricians with Article 250 expertise, OSHA compliance knowledge, lightning protection strategies, and low-impedance fault current path design for safer industrial, commercial, and institutional power systems.

Key Points

Live NEC 250 course on grounding and bonding, covering safety, testing, and OSHA-compliant design.

✅ Interprets NEC Article 250 grounding and bonding rules

✅ Designs low-impedance fault current paths for safety

✅ Aligns with OSHA, lightning protection, and testing best practices

The Electricity Forum is organizing a series of live online Electrical Grounding and Bonding - NEC 250 training courses this Fall:

• September 8-9 , 2020 - 10:00 am - 4:30 pm ET
• October 29-30 , 2020 - 10:00 am - 4:30 pm ET
• November 23-24 , 2020 - 10:00 am - 4:30 pm ET

This interactive 12-hour live online instructor-led  Grounding and Bonding and the NEC Training course takes an in-depth look at Article 250 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and is designed to give students the correct information they need to design, install and maintain effective electrical grounding and bonding systems in industrial, commercial and institutional power systems, with substation maintenance training also relevant in many facilities.

One of the most important AND least understood sections of the NEC is the section on Electrical Grounding, where resources like grounding guidelines can help practitioners navigate key concepts.

No other section of the National Electrical Code can match Article 250 (Grounding and Bonding) for confusion that leads to misapplication, violation, and misinterpretation. It's generally agreed that the terminology used in Section 250 has been a source for much confusion for industrial, commercial and institutional electricians. Thankfully, this has improved during the last few revisions to Article 250.

Article 250 covers the grounding requirements for providing a path to the earth to reduce overvoltage from lightning, with lightning protection training providing useful context, and the bonding requirements for a low-impedance fault current path back to the source of the electrical supply to facilitate the operation of overcurrent devices in the event of a ground fault.

Our Electrical Grounding Training course will address all the latest changes to  the Electrical Grounding rules included in the NEC, and relate them to VFD drive training considerations for modern systems.

Our course will cover grounding fundamentals, identify which grounding system tests can prevent safety and operational issues at your facilities, and introduce related motor testing training topics, and details regarding which tests can be conducted while the plant is in operation versus which tests require a shutdown will be discussed. 

Proper electrical grounding and bonding of equipment helps ensure that the electrical equipment and systems safely remove the possibility of electric shock, by limiting the voltage imposed on electrical equipment and systems from lightning, line surges, unintentional contact with higher-voltage lines, or ground-fault conditions. Proper grounding and bonding is important for personnel protection, with electrical safety tips offering practical guidance, as well as for compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.304(g) Grounding.

It has been determined that more than 70 per cent of all electrical problems in industrial, commercial and institutional power systems, including large projects like the New England Clean Power Link, are due to poor grounding, and bonding errors. Without proper electrical grounding and bonding, sensitive electronic equipment is subjected to destruction of data, erratic equipment operation, and catastrophic damage. This electrical grounding and bonding training course will National Electrical Code.

Complete course details here:

https://electricityforum.com/electrical-training/electrical-grounding-nec

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Canada Economic Crossroads highlights bank earnings trends, interest rates, loan delinquencies, EV tariffs on Chinese imports, domestic manufacturing, Algoma Steel decarbonization, sustainability, and housing market risks shaping growth, investment, consumer prices, and climate policy.

Key Points

An overview of how bank earnings, EV tariffs, and Algoma Steel's transition shape Canada's economy.

✅ Higher rates lift margins but raise delinquencies and housing risks

✅ EV tariffs aid domestic makers but pressure consumer prices

✅ Algoma invests to decarbonize, boosting efficiency and compliance

In a complex economic landscape, recent developments have brought attention to several pivotal issues affecting Canada's business sector. The Globe and Mail’s latest report delves into three major topics: the latest bank earnings, the implications of new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), and Algoma Steel’s strategic maneuvers. These factors collectively paint a picture of the challenges and opportunities facing Canada's economy.

Bank Earnings Reflect Economic Uncertainty

The recent financial reports from major Canadian banks have revealed a mixed picture of the nation’s economic health. As the Globe and Mail reports, earnings results show robust performances in some areas while highlighting growing concerns in others. Banks have generally posted strong quarterly results, buoyed by higher interest rates which have improved their net interest margins. This uptick is largely attributed to the central bank's monetary policies aimed at combating inflation and stabilizing the economy.

However, the positive earnings are tempered by underlying economic uncertainties. Rising loan delinquencies and a slowing housing market are areas of concern. Increased interest rates, while beneficial for banks’ margins, have also led to higher borrowing costs for consumers and businesses. This dynamic has the potential to impact overall economic growth and consumer confidence.

Tariffs on Chinese EVs: A Strategic Shift

Another significant development is the imposition of new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. This move is part of a broader strategy to protect domestic automotive industries and address trade imbalances, aligning with public support for tariffs in key sectors. The tariffs are expected to increase the cost of Chinese EVs in Canada, which could have several implications for the market.

On one hand, the tariffs might provide a temporary boost to Canadian and North American manufacturers by reducing competition from lower-priced Chinese imports. This protectionist measure could encourage investments in local production and innovation, mirroring tariff threats boosting support for energy projects in other sectors. However, the increased cost of Chinese EVs may also lead to higher prices for consumers, potentially slowing the adoption of electric vehicles—a critical goal in Canada’s climate strategy.

The tariffs come at a time when the Canadian government is keen on accelerating the transition to electric mobility to meet its environmental targets, even as a critical crunch in electrical supply raises questions about grid readiness. Balancing the protection of domestic industries with the broader goal of reducing emissions will be a significant challenge moving forward.

Algoma Steel’s Strategic Evolution

In the steel industry, Algoma Steel has been making headlines with its strategic initiatives aimed at transforming its operations, in a broader shift toward clean grids and industrial decarbonization. The Globe and Mail highlights Algoma Steel's efforts to modernize its production processes and shift towards more sustainable practices. This includes significant investments in technology and infrastructure to enhance production efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Algoma's focus on reducing carbon emissions aligns with broader industry trends towards sustainability. The company’s efforts are part of a larger push within the steel sector to address climate change and meet regulatory requirements. As one of Canada’s leading steel producers, Algoma’s actions could set a precedent for the industry, showcasing how traditional manufacturing sectors can adapt to evolving environmental standards.

Implications and Future Outlook

The interplay of these developments reflects a period of significant transition for Canada's economy, shaped in part by U.S. policy where Biden is seen as better for Canada's energy sector by some analysts. For banks, the challenge will be to navigate the balance between profitability and potential risks from a changing economic environment. The new tariffs on Chinese EVs represent a strategic shift with mixed implications for the automotive market, potentially influencing both domestic production and consumer prices. Meanwhile, Algoma Steel’s push towards sustainability could serve as a model for other industries seeking to align with environmental goals.

As these issues unfold, stakeholders across sectors will need to stay informed and adaptable. For policymakers, the challenge will be to support domestic industries while fostering innovation and sustainability, including the dilemma over electricity rates and innovation they must weigh. For businesses, the focus will be on navigating financial pressures and leveraging opportunities for growth. Consumers, in turn, will face the impact of these developments in their daily lives, from the cost of borrowing to the price of electric vehicles.

In summary, Canada’s current economic landscape is characterized by a blend of financial resilience, strategic adjustments, and evolving industry practices, amid policy volatility such as a tariff threat delaying Quebec's green energy bill earlier this year. As the country navigates these crossroads, the outcomes of these developments will play a crucial role in shaping the future economic environment.

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Hong Kong Typhoon Mangkhut Power Outages strain households with blackouts, electricity disruption, and humid heat, impacting Tin Ping Estate in Sheung Shui and outlying islands; contractor-led restoration faces fines for delays and infrastructure repairs.

Key Points

They are blackout events after Typhoon Mangkhut, bringing heat stress, food spoilage, and delayed power restoration.

✅ 16 floors in Tin Ping Estate lost power after meter room blast.

✅ Contractor faces HK$100,000 daily fines for late restoration.

✅ Kat O and Ap Chau families remain off-grid in humid heat.

Nearly 600 Hong Kong families are still sweltering under the summer heat and facing dark nights without electricity after Typhoon Mangkhut cut off power supply to areas, echoing mass power outages seen elsewhere.

At Sheung Shui’s Tin Ping Estate in the New Territories, 384 families were still without power, a situation similar to the LA-area blackout that left many without service. They were told on Tuesday that a contractor would rectify the situation by Friday, or be fined HK$100,000 for each day of delay.

In remote areas such as outlying islets Kat O and Ap Chau, there were some 200 families still without electricity, similar to Tennessee storm outages affecting rural communities.

The power outage at Tin Ping Estate affected 16 floors – from the 11th to 26th – in Tin Cheung House after a blast from the meter room on the 15th floor was heard at about 5pm on Sunday, and authorities urged residents to follow storm electrical safety tips during repairs.

“I was sitting on the sofa when I heard a loud bang,” said Lee Sau-king, 61, whose flat was next to the meter room. “I was so scared that my hands kept trembling.”

While the block’s common areas and lifts were not affected, flats on the 16 floors encountered blackouts.

As her fridge was out of power, Lee had to throw away all the food she had stocked up for the typhoon. With the freezer not functioning, her stored dried seafood became soaked and she had to dry them outside the window when the storm passed.

Daily maximum temperatures rose back to 30 degrees Celsius after the typhoon, and nights became unbearably humid, as utilities worldwide pursue utility climate adaptation to maintain reliability. “It’s too hot here. I can’t sleep at all,” Lee said.

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