Getting a grip on the grid

When accidents occur in the systems that comprise an interconnected electric power grid, these accidents must be regarded as the symptom of inadequate grid design and management. As such, there is an urgent need for cross-regional reforms so that the best available technology is promptly put to use, without lengthy delays arising from the legislative or regulatory process. The reform process needs to recognize that all interconnected systems will experience major blackouts if operated outside intended design limits. Ultimately, end users must accept the price for reliability or the consequence of unavailability.