2024
Belgium
Following a storm in Mechelen, Belgium, during which pylons fell and damaged houses, Belgian TSO Elia invested in communities to build trust, leading to cooperation with residents to better overcome the incident.
Highlights
01
Residents reduced their electricity consumption to support grid restoration works.
02
Elia’s team was present on site to provide information and assisted residents with insurance issues.
03
The connection with the community was strengthened and the incident was overcome with trust instead of conflict.
Main Information
Due to an extreme storm on 9 July 2024 in Mechelen, Belgium, nine high-voltage pylons toppled over and conductors collapsed, landing primarily in fields but also on 15 houses. No human was injured, but the material damage caused by the storm and its impact on residents were significant, as residents of 15 households could not return to their homes for a week. In these circumstances, the mutual support shown by residents and the TSO Elia during and after the restoration process demonstrated the value of trust and solidarity in crisis. Residents supported grid restoration by reducing electricity consumption during the necessary works, bringing electricity demand down to 20MW compared to the 50MW average. In parallel, beyond working around the clock to restore the line, Elia was present to provide continuous information. The TSO also supported residents even after the situation was restored, helping with insurance issues and maintaining communication. Overall, this serious incident showed how investing in trust-building can create stronger connections with communities and benefit residents affected by a transmission line.
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