Extreme weather can be unpredictable and unrelenting. Energy workforces and homeowners must stay vigilant because the upcoming hurricane season could have some of the greatest energy impacts on society. With predictions of at least 17 named storms, 10 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes in the region, it is essential to take proactive steps to ensure resilience and minimize damage.
What Energy Professionals Should Anticipate This Hurricane Season
- Disruptions to fossil fuels and oil production in the Gulf of Mexico, leading to potential fuel cost spikes and supply chain disruptions
- Opportunities for established renewable energy to diminish adoption and increase adoption of battery energy storage solutions
- Increased risk of environmental damage due to hazardous materials stored in refineries and other facilities
Last year’s hurricane season was one of the most expensive, with above-average storms and significant damage. While it was not the peak, it still had a significant impact on human health and energy infrastructure. The National Hurricane Center and Central Pacific Hurricane Center reported that the 2024 Atlantic and Eastern Pacific hurricane season could be indicative of what to expect in 2025.
| Year | Damage Cost |
|---|---|
| 2017 | $339.2 billion |
| 2020 | Record-breaking events and highest number of storms |
| 2023 | Warmest July temperatures in history |
The increasing strength and frequency of hurricanes pose a significant challenge to energy infrastructure. The need for resilience investments to harden the grid is evident. America received a D+ grade for its infrastructure report card in 2025, and part of this is due to a $578 billion need for modernization and accommodating growing demands.
The Predictions on Energy Impacts
Experts from Sarasota’s Climate Adaptation Center forecast 2025 will bring at least 17 named storms, 10 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes to the region. The climate crisis will only catalyze more dangerous weather events, making it essential to take proactive steps to prepare.
- Fossil fuels and oil production in the Gulf of Mexico will come to a halt, causing exorbitant fuel cost spikes and supply chain disruptions
- Established renewable energy could see increased adoption and growth, with battery energy storage solutions playing a crucial role in protecting the public and expanding energy capacity
- Disruptions to refineries and other facilities could lead to environmental damage and hazards
What Energy Professionals and Homeowners Can Do
Here are some recommendations for energy professionals and homeowners to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.
Recommendations for Energy Professionals
- Design hurricane-prone areas intentionally, incorporating grid-hardening and resiliency upgrades to combat antiquated installations
- Use wind-resistant materials and deploy smart grids to enhance resilience
- Engage in supplier diversity and redundancy to ensure access to necessary equipment
- Establish emergency response protocols and financial safety nets to mitigate the impact of a storm
Homeowners can also take proactive steps to protect themselves and their properties. Renters should invest in insurance options and stock up on essentials, while homeowners can install renewable energy and battery backups, and make their homes more energy-efficient.
Tips for Homeowners and Renters
- Invest in insurance options and stock up on essentials
- Install renewable energy and battery backups
- Make homes more energy-efficient by using weatherstripping and threshold seals
- Identify and store essential documents
Surviving the Elements
Surviving the elements requires a combination of preparation, resilience, and knowledge. By taking proactive steps to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, energy workforces and homeowners can minimize damage and ensure a faster recovery.
“The key to surviving the elements is to be prepared and have a plan in place.
