Advanced geomagnetic storm forecasting: A risk management tool for electric power system operations

Geomagnetic disturbances (i.e., space storms) can impact the operational re liability of transmission systems. Solar Cycle 22 (the most recent solar cy cle extending from 1986 to 1996) demonstrated to the power industry the nee d to take into consideration the potential impacts of geomagnetic storms, E xperience gained from the unprecedented scale of these recent storm events provides compelling evidence of a general increase in electric power system susceptibility. Important infrastructure advances have recently been put i n place that provide solar w(i)nd data. This new data source along with num eric model advances allows the capability for predictive forecasts of sever e storm conditions, which can be used by impacted power system operators to better prepare for and manage storm impacts.