Database Practice

EDP Networks develops climate adaptation plan to strengthen Iberian power networks against extreme weather

Database Practice

Tags

Extreme winds; Wildfires; Floods; Snow

Calendar 2025
Location Europe

Organisation: EDP Networks, EDP Redes España, E-REDES

EDP Networks (E-REDES in Portugal and Edp Redes España) developed a comprehensive Climate Adaptation Plan to strengthen the Iberian electricity distribution network against extreme winds, wildfires, floods, and snow.

Using IPCC scenarios, the adaptation plan integrates climate risk into planning, operations, and nature-based management to ensure long-term network resilience.

Based on IPCC CMIP5 scenarios (RCP 2.6, 4.5 and 8.5) across three time periods up to 2100, extreme climate hazard maps were modeled, including historical scenario and analysis of past incidents, and definition of network impact thresholds, by climate variables affecting assets.

Combines engineering, operational, and nature-based adaptation measures.

Uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, LiDAR, and satellite data for vegetation monitoring.

Includes Analytics4Vegetation tool to predict species growth and prevent fire risk.

Integrates resilience metrics (4R’s) into monitoring and evaluation.

EDP’s climate adaptation plan focuses on four areas of action. In the area of Asset Management,  the plan aims to embed climate resilience into every layer of network planning and operation, integrating climate hazard maps, covering extreme wind, fire, flood, and snow, into investment planning that prioritizes effective adaptation measures.

The area of Resources and Capabilities strengthens contingency planning, logistics, and supplier readiness for extreme weather events. Lessons learned from past crises feed into improved emergency procedures and innovation partnerships.

Through the area of Nature-based Adaptation, EDP Networks promotes integrated vegetation management using technological tools like LiDAR, drones, and satellite images combined with AI models. The Analytics4Vegetation platform supports predictive vegetation management, minimizing unnecessary clearing while enhancing fire resilience.

Finally, the area of Adaptation Monitoring incorporates performance indicators and resilience metrics, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement. Together, these coordinated measures prepare EDP’s Iberian distribution networks for future climate challenges.

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