Climate Resilience in Energy Systems: Addressing Droughts and Wildfires

Extreme weather events—droughts, wildfires, and heatwaves—are increasing in frequency and intensity due to climate change, posing significant risks to global energy systems. These events disrupt electricity generation, transmission, and distribution, exposing vulnerabilities in grid infrastructure and communities. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that 50% of global electricity networks face wildfire risk for over 50 days annually, with 18% at high risk for over 200 days ^[1]. Droughts reduce hydropower output and limit cooling water for thermal power plants, while extreme heat increases demand and strains infrastructure. This article explores the impacts of these phenomena, focusing on recent drought and wildfire events, and examines resilience strategies deployed worldwide.