Energy resilience assessment: Incorporating consideration of recoverability and adaptability in risk assessment of energy infrastructure

Abstract

Large-scale deployment of renewable energy is being witnessed around the world as a result of global commitment towards carbon neutrality and Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDGs 7 and 13. Renewable energy infrastructure becomes more vulnerable to disasters and climate change requiring revisit of risk assessment to ensure its resilience against future threats. This study proposes an energy resilience assessment framework that enables evaluation of all attributes of resilient energy infrastructure: prepare, absorb, recover, and adapt. Building upon risk assessment, the framework helps the energy infrastructure prepare for future disruptions and absorb resulting consequences. It introduces evaluation of changes of risks over time, which enables better recoverability. It also ensures engagement of stakeholders that enhances adaptability of the system towards future threats. A case study of energy resilience assessment using the proposed framework with Chiang Mai Rajabhat University's 702 kW solar power plant proved practicality of the framework and its ability to contribute to system's recoverability and adaptability. ASEAN Energy Resilience Assessment Guideline was developed and promoted in policy domain as an example of efforts to put the framework into broader practice.