Microgrids could be utilized to improve the distribution network resiliency against weather-related network outages and increase the security of power supply of rural electricity consumers. Whereas underground cabling is expensive for the distribution system operator (DSO), an alternative microgrid investment could benefit the DSO and consumer, provided the necessary changes were made in the network regulation. A rural detached house customer microgrid is analysed in comparison to underground cabling, considering the uncertainties in the calculation parameters through a sensitivity analysis. Adequacy of the microgrid power supply during unexpected network outage for a reasonably long duration is assessed, as well as the economics of the feasible microgrid setup consisting of variable generation, controllable generation, and electric storage. The total costs and benefits for the DSO and consumer/prosumer are considered. A microgrid would likely be a more cost-efficient option overall, but not as-is for the consumer. The battery energy storage system (BESS)-related cost-sharing strategies are suggested in this paper in order to assess possible break-even investment solutions for the related parties. The sensitivities of the microgrid and cabling investments were considered in particular. Cost-sharing strategies under network regulatory framework would need to be developed further in order for both the consumer and DSO to benefit from the solution as a whole.

Extreme weather conditions threaten Finnish electricity distribution networks that are mostly built as overhead lines. This paper presents selected methods and technologies that can be taken to improve the networks' resilience during different phases of a disruptive event.

Extreme weather forms a major threat to electricity distribution networks and has caused many severe power outages in the past. A reliable electrical grid is something most of us take for granted, but storms, heavy snowfall, and other effects of extreme weather continue to cause disruptions in electricity supply. This paper contributes to ensuring the continuity of electricity supply under adverse weather events. The aim is to describe and to analyze how the continuity of electricity supply can be ensured in the case of extreme weather. Based on the research, the energy sector is highly dependent on the existing locations and structures of the current infrastructure. Aging infrastructure is commonly seen as a main vulnerability factor. The most vulnerable parts of the electricity distribution system to extreme weather conditions are the networks built as overhead lines. However, the resilience of the networks against extreme weather can be increased significantly in all phases of a disaster management cycle. Methods and technological solutions proposed in this paper to alleviate such problems include adjacent forest management and periodic aerial inspections, situational awareness, distributed generation and microgrids, placement of overhead lines, underground cabling, and unmanned air vehicles. However, it must be noticed that the methods and their value for stakeholders are context-dependent. Thus, their applicability and appropriateness may change over time.

The resilience of critical infrastructure (CI) to extreme weather events (EWE) is one of the most demanding challenges for all stakeholders in modern society. Although partial risk reduction is feasible through the introduction and implementation of various risk mitigation measures (RMM), decision-makers at all decision-making levels are pressured to find ways to cope with the impending extreme weather and to have a thorough understanding of the EWE impacts on CI. This paper discusses how the value of RMMs can be created and assessed in a stakeholder network. Qualitative research methods, namely literature review and AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process), were applied as research methods. The paper examines how disaster management and value creation both converge and differ from each other. It also presents a case study on the value of various RMM and the impacts of extreme winter conditions on electricity distribution in Finland. Based on the case study, the most important value criterion was the benefits of the RMM in economic, social, and environmental terms. At a fundamental level, the value of RMM should be expressed not only in terms of money but also in regard to safety, security, societal acceptability, CI dependability, and other typically intangible criteria. Moreover, the results reveal that the interrelationship of value creation and disaster management offers new insights to both approaches.