http://www.aip.org/tip/INPHFA/vol-9/iss-5/p8.html

Very long, read it all...

Excerpt:

"The conditions that caused the August 14th blackout remain in place. In fact, the number of TLRs and the extent of frequency instability remained high after August 14 until September’s cool weather reduced stress on the grid. What can be done to prevent a repetition next summer?"

Upshot: Blackouts will be wider spread and last longer.

Martin:

Thanks for posting this information. I was actually looking for similar material and found this to be the most useful. <img src="/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />

Thanks again,

Stargazer

Currently looking at a small solar system to go off grid for a short while. From a strategic viewpoint, it would be wise if everyone able were to put a solar system on their home and plug into the grid. Build a completely decentralized power system augmenting the current system. There is probably enough solar going to waste in SOCAL to power the entire state of CA. It's there everyday when sun comes up.

That article is pretty darn frustrating. It seems that the whole electricity deregulation of the 90's is a complete and utter failure. Reading the details of the 2003 NE Blackout is pretty interesting. Nothing appears to have been done since to avoid similar blackouts.

This quote is telling:

Damn, now I'm in a grumpy mood. Stupid people...
Jason

In case anyone didn't know already, power companies (maybe different under de-regulation??) are required to PAY YOU for any excess electricity you produce. If you're generating 3.5kwH a day, and only use 2.0kwH, you get "credit" for 1.5kwH.

I have a friend who shall remain nameless - he's been doing a LOT of work with the folks out west - in particular - California - he said there WILL be rolling blackout this summer, and for the next few years, until some new power lines get finished - going to get ugly

I guess that means me and you are going to get hit too!