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As the Atlantic hurricane season looms, Duke Energy is bolstering its storm readiness with a significant investment in technology and enhanced preparedness strategies. Officials in Garner, North Carolina, recently highlighted the company’s proactive measures aimed at swiftly restoring power and minimising disruption for customers during severe weather events.

Hurricane season, officially running from June 1st to November 30th, poses a recurring threat to communities across the southeastern United States. Duke Energy, serving millions of customers across North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and Kentucky, understands the critical importance of being fully prepared.

Leveraging Cutting-Edge Technology

This year, Duke Energy is expanding its arsenal of technological tools designed to improve situational awareness, streamline restoration efforts, and enhance communication with customers. Key advancements include:

• Advanced Drone Technology: Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras are being deployed to assess damage quickly and identify areas requiring immediate attention. This allows crews to prioritize repairs and allocate resources effectively.
• Enhanced Geographic Information System (GIS) Mapping: Duke Energy’s GIS system has been upgraded to provide real-time data on power outages, infrastructure conditions, and crew locations. This improved mapping helps dispatchers make informed decisions and coordinate restoration activities.
• Smart Grid Technologies: Investments in smart grid technologies, such as automated switches and sensors, enable quicker isolation of damaged sections of the grid, preventing widespread outages and facilitating targeted repairs.
• Predictive Analytics: Sophisticated predictive models are being used to forecast potential storm impacts and proactively position crews and equipment in areas most likely to be affected.

Beyond Technology: A Holistic Approach

While technology plays a vital role, Duke Energy recognizes that preparedness extends beyond gadgets and software. The company is also focused on:

• Expanding Workforce: Duke Energy has increased its workforce of line technicians and support personnel to ensure sufficient resources are available during storm events.
• Pre-Positioning Equipment: Generators, transformers, and other essential equipment are being strategically positioned across the service area to expedite restoration efforts.
• Strengthening Infrastructure: Ongoing investments in grid hardening, including replacing aging poles and power lines with more resilient materials, are reducing the vulnerability of the system to severe weather.
• Improved Communication: Duke Energy is committed to keeping customers informed throughout the storm season and during outages. Customers can receive updates via the Duke Energy website, mobile app, social media, and text alerts.

Customer Safety and Preparedness

Duke Energy encourages customers to take their own precautions during hurricane season. This includes creating a family emergency plan, assembling a disaster kit with essential supplies, and staying informed about weather forecasts and warnings.

“We’re committed to providing safe and reliable service to our customers, especially during challenging weather events,” stated a Duke Energy spokesperson. “Our investments in technology and preparedness, combined with our dedicated workforce, put us in a strong position to respond effectively to the hurricane season.”

By proactively addressing potential risks and embracing innovative solutions, Duke Energy aims to minimise the impact of hurricanes and ensure a swift return to normalcy for the communities it serves.