Power pole with blue sky and clouds in the background

Should power lines go underground?

Dr. Ted Kury, director of energy studies for the Public Utility Research Center in the Warrington College of Business, observes that installing power lines underground to prevent outages during hurricanes may not be the magic bullet many are seeking.

Read Dr. Kury’s article in UF News.

Dr. Kury has provided additional expert insight for a number of news stories about extreme weather effects on power lines. Check out these stories below.

The Washington Post – After Irma, Florida prepares for days – and maybe weeks – without power

NPR’s Here & Now – What challenges do utilities face in restoring service after storms like Irma?

Public Broadcasting Atlanta WABE – Post-Irma, why not bury all power lines?

The Tampa Bay Times – Half of Irma’s power outages restored, but lights still out for 3.3 million Florida homes

The Tampa Bay Times – In Florida, 2.1 million customers still powerless four days after Hurricane Irma

The Miami Herald – Would millions in Irma’s path still have power if the lines were underground?

The Miami Herald – Is South Florida more prepared than it was 12 years ago with Wilma?

E&E News – For utilities, buried lines no ‘panacea’ to avoid outages

E&E News – Florida utilities prepare, but ‘there’s only so much you can do’

The Island Packet – Would millions in Irma’s path still have power if the lines were underground? 

WPLG Local 10 News – Power outages spur question about burying power lines in South Florida