Sand test

Dust raised by such storms is one of the critical interference components in an electricity network. As it gathers on insulators at substations and high-tension wires the efficiency of the network is impeded and cleaning may be required.

Developments in recent years have seen an alternative to the traditional ceramic insulators appear on the market. Silicon rubber insulators have been found to offer favourable performance improvements in desert conditions, based on lower lifecycle costs, but are still going through various long-term field trials. Wholesale replacement of insulators in areas where they are most affected by atmospheric pollutants is still a long way off.

Another consideration is the fate of the old-fashioned wooden power pole, still found in more remote areas throughout the region. At only a few metres high they can easily be swallowed by sand drifts, leaving live power cables running along at little more than ground level. This naturally presents a danger to people and can also cause a loss of livestock, as grazing animals have been known to come into contact with the live wires.

No doubt, if the weather turns nasty, there will be issues. While forward planning can help, resolving problems may come down to how quickly utilities can respond to issues in the field, to ensure a continuity of supply and keep people safe.