We’re well into the busy hurricane season, which means a brutal storm could present itself at any moment.
It’s a reminder that readiness is not just a precaution but a necessity. While it can be tempting to delay preparations until a storm appears imminent, being proactive is key to effectively manage the potential impact of a hurricane.
Energy Transfer preparation
In times of extreme weather, such as hurricanes, the demand for energy can surge dramatically. Energy Transfer, a leading midstream infrastructure company, plays a vital role in addressing the increased demand through its extensive underground pipeline network and storage facilities. Its assets are essential to maintain the flow of natural gas necessary to power the electrical grid when conditions become severe.
The company’s preparation includes packing its pipelines with natural gas to their maximum to provide additional supply and serve as additional storage units. Because Energy Transfer has an integrated system that runs throughout the country, it is also able to bring gas in from other geographic areas.
Other proactive measures Energy Transfer takes include coordinating with state-wide utilities to prioritize electric power restoration, which is crucial to resume operations and minimizing disruptions in fuel distribution.
They also secure backup power generation equipment and collaborate with various government agencies to classify pipelines as critical infrastructure. This ensures they have access to necessary resources during emergencies.
Energy Transfer is committed to enhancing pipeline safety through the Pipeline Safety Management System (PSMS). The system outlines how Energy Transfer designs, constructs, operates and cares for pipeline assets so that it’s done in a way that ensures safety and reliability.
The PSMS incorporates key elements that foster a culture of ongoing improvement and emphasizes the importance of learning from experiences and evaluating performance through regular risk management assessments.
To further support continuity during severe weather, Energy Transfer works with vendors to pre-position essential supplies such as food, water and transportation, while also updating emergency plans to cover additional needs.
Enhanced training for employees, improvements to emergency response plans and strengthening of onshore buildings are part of the comprehensive approach to minimizing damage and ensuring operational stability.
Energy Transfer’s commitment to preparedness extends even further, as it includes participating in regular industry conferences to exchange best practices and strengthen response strategies.
Emergency generators and specialty equipment are strategically deployed to maintain facility operations during power outages, underscoring the company’s dedication to maintaining essential services during the chaos of a storm.
Utilizing natural gas at home
Should the power go out, electric appliances cannot be used. Gas appliances, however, can be tremendously beneficial in this instance, as many can run even when the power is out. For example:
- A gas range top can operate so that you can continue to feed your family.
- A gas tank water heater can allow you to shower.
- A gas generator powers up and can begin working quicker and stay on until the power comes back.
In addition to this, natural gas consumes less energy to perform the same tasks, which can help lower energy bills. Plus, natural gas is a relatively clean-burning fossil fuel, as it results in fewer emissions of carbon dioxide, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Confidence ahead of the storm
Being prepared is the key to best weathering the storm. When families do their part to ensure they are ready for what may come, and pipeline companies do what they can on their end, it can help to promote a better outcome overall.
As you prepare your home and family for a hurricane, Houston residents can be confident to weather the storm knowing that companies like Energy Transfer are also working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that energy supplies remain steady and reliable.
Click or tap here to learn more about Energy Transfer.