As more homeowners switch to solar energy and electrification, a big question is coming up: are these systems ready to handle extreme weather? According to an article in Electrical Contractor Magazine, over a quarter of U.S. homes are already fully electrified and solar installations are expected to triple in the next five years. This means it’s more important than ever to understand how these homes hold up during power outages, winter storms, and heat waves.

For electricians and contractors, knowing how fully electrified and solar-powered homes perform helps ensure installations are reliable and customers get the support they need as their energy systems evolve.

3 Ways Weather Affects Electric & Solar Homes

Fully electrified and solar-powered homes are designed for energy efficiency and environmental performance. However, their reliance on a consistent electrical supply makes them sensitive to specific weather disruptions. Fully electrified homes are three times more likely to be vulnerable during winter power outages than those with other energy sources. 

As climate patterns shift and extreme events become more frequent, it’s essential to understand how different conditions can influence system performance and household comfort.

1) Solar Production Challenges 

Solar panels work most efficiently when they have clear skies and steady sunlight, but extreme weather can significantly impact performance:

• Heavy snowstorms can cover panels and reduce generation for extended periods
• Dense wildfire smoke blocks sunlight and limits energy production
• Prolonged overcast conditions dramatically decrease available energy for use or storage
• Increased energy demands during weather events strain already reduced solar output

While panels typically self-clear snow with sun exposure, extended low-light periods create energy shortfalls precisely when homes need power most for heating or cooling.

2) Peak Load Pressures

Extreme temperatures increase household energy consumption as HVAC systems work overtime to maintain comfort. Heat waves and cold snaps create significant challenges:

• Grid strain during peak usage can limit available power
• Undersized energy storage systems may struggle to meet increased demands
• Homeowners may need to adjust usage patterns to conserve stored energy

3) Physical System Vulnerabilities

While residential solar systems are built for durability, weather exposure remains a concern:

• Rooftop panels face potential damage from wind, ice, and debris
• Wiring and inverters require protection from environmental extremes
• Outdoor heat pump units need strategic placement and weatherproofing
• Proper installation techniques become critical for long-term resilience

Despite these challenges, thoughtfully designed electric and solar-powered homes can deliver exceptional comfort, control, and resilience during severe weather events.

Key Considerations for Electrification & Resilience

Electrification is a valuable strategy for achieving long-term energy goals, and with proper planning, these systems can provide reliable performance even under challenging conditions. Below are a few key elements to keep in mind when working with residential clients.

Solar & Backup Power Combos

Pairing rooftop solar with home energy storage systems creates a robust defense against outages caused by storms, wildfires, or grid failures. This innovative combination ensures power during emergencies and represents the promising future of solar energy resilience. 

When the grid is down, batteries can power essentials like refrigeration, lighting, communication, and heating or cooling. This setup improves self-reliance and helps clients manage energy use more effectively during emergencies.

Heat Pumps for All Seasons

Electric heat pumps offer efficient heating and cooling in one system. Cold-climate models remain effective even in freezing temperatures. When powered by solar, they provide low-emission, reliable comfort year-round. 

Integrating smart thermostats or energy management systems can enhance performance and reduce grid impact during peak demand.

Innovative Design for Pacific Northwest Conditions

Our region has seen increasingly severe weather events that impact energy systems. Tailoring these systems to local weather conditions increases both performance and durability. Consider:

• Weather-Resilient Design: Ensure rooftop solar panels are securely mounted and angled to promote snow shedding.
• Protective Placement: Install outdoor units in shielded areas that reduce wind exposure and prevent physical damage.
• Routine Maintenance Plans: Offer service packages that include seasonal inspections and preventive care to catch minor issues before they lead to failures

Building Toward a Resilient Future

For electricians and energy professionals, mastering weather-resilient design principles creates opportunities to deliver systems that meet environmental goals and provide genuine energy security when customers need it most.

Discover NECA–IBEW Local 48

Interested in joining a strong, supportive community of electrical professionals? Visit our dedicated membership pages for the Oregon-Columbia Chapter of NECA or IBEW Local 48 to learn more.

Looking for better pay, career growth, and health and retirement benefits? Electricians across Oregon and Southwest Washington are discovering the incredible advantages of IBEW Local 48 membership. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional, joining us provides the support, stability, and benefits necessary to expand your career and realize your full potential, empowering you to take control of your career.

DISCOVER IBEW LOCAL 48

What Is IBEW Local 48? 

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) has represented skilled electrical workers since its founding in 1891. IBEW members have powered North America with expert craftsmanship, innovative thinking, and the skills that keep our world running.

IBEW Local 48 is more than just a labor union for electricians in Oregon and Southwest Washington. It is a long-standing advocate for worker rights, industry excellence, and professional growth. The Local’s reputation is built on raising industry standards, securing strong contracts, and offering the training and resources electricians need to thrive in a competitive and fast-changing field.

When you join IBEW Local 48, you are not just joining a union. You are becoming part of a respected, future-focused organization that is deeply committed to creating the best opportunities for its members.

5 Exclusive IBEW Local 48 Union Member Advantages

1) Industry Advocacy & Support

IBEW Local 48 works to ensure electricians receive fair wages, strong labor protections, and safe working conditions. Joining Local 48 means gaining a collective voice that helps shape workplace policies and secure competitive benefits. As a member, you have the support and resources needed to navigate career transitions, negotiate fair wages, and build long-term stability in the electrical trade.

2) Training, Education & Certifications

IBEW offers continuing education programs, apprenticeships, and access to cutting-edge technology training to help members stay ahead of the curve. Whether you’re looking to expand your skills and advance in the industry, membership gives you the tools and resources to gain new knowledge, making you a highly desired electrician. If you are thinking of making a career move into the exciting electrical industry, apprenticeships give you the skills to start on your career path. 

3) Competitive Wages & Benefits 

IBEW members consistently earn higher wages when compared to non-union electricians. Through union-negotiated contracts, members receive better-paid leave options, comprehensive health benefits, and retirement security, ensuring long-term stability for you and your family.  

4) Community & Networking  

IBEW Local 48 membership means more than just professional benefits. It means becoming part of a powerful network of professionals who have your best interests at heart. From monthly mentorship committee meetings to industry events, electricians gather to support one another and foster lasting connections. 

5) Career Advancement

Being an IBEW member is a mark of excellence, reliability, and experience in the electrical industry. Membership offers access to world-class training and ongoing education, ensuring electricians stay current with the latest technologies and industry advancements. It’s a powerful way to sharpen your skills, enhance job prospects, and open the door to expanded career opportunities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, IBEW membership sets you apart and helps you build a future rooted in quality and professionalism.

Who Should Join?    

Anyone who wants to become part of the growing electrical profession should join. Whether you’re a seasoned electrician looking for better job security or brand new to the trade, IBEW Local 48 is here to help you succeed!

If you want:  

• Better wages and robust health and retirement benefits
• Stronger job security
• Access to education and training 
• A supportive network of professionals

Then IBEW Local 48 membership is the right move for you!

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Hear From Current Members  

See what our members have to say about being a part of the IBEW Local 48 community.

 I’m surrounded by some of the most inspiring, hardworking, and smart people—some of them are really competitive, too. But they’re also a lot of fun to be around, whether it’s on the job site or with my classmates. I’m so happy and fortunate to be part of this community…I can’t stress enough what the union means, not just to me, but to working Americans and to American history. 

~ Steven Chang, NIETC Apprentice

I met an electrician who changed everything for me. He told me about an apprenticeship program. Meeting him was lucky because it led me to a career where I could use my hands-on skills in a big way…[Now] I also run our Ambassador 48 program, which is a platform to train our members for career fairs and speaking engagements in classrooms. This allows us to match individuals from our diverse community with schools that share similar diversity and age groups.

~ Bridget Quinn, Workforce Development Coordinator at NIETC

I’m now gainfully employed making $60.50 an hour as a Journeyman Electrician, own my own home, and have all the resources of a strong union at my fingertips. What’s more, I get to help others succeed. It’s the absolute all-time high for me.

~Michelle Thomas, IBEW Local 48 Journeyman

Become a Member of the IBEW Local 48 

From stronger support to better benefits, career advancement, and continuing education, membership pays off.  

Ready to secure the future you deserve? Join IBEW Local 48 today and start reaping the benefits. Learn more about the difference membership can make in your life and career. 

The renewable energy sector is booming, and new technologies like floating solar panels are opening up exciting opportunities for electricians and contractors. This emerging technology could revolutionize America’s solar capacity, creating significant opportunities for contractors to grow with the green economy. The potential for growth in the renewable energy sector is immense, and it’s an exciting time to be part of this industry.

What is Floating Solar? 

The solar industry has grown significantly over recent years. While most people are familiar with land-based infrastructure, solar technology now rides new waves. 

Floating solar panels are installed on bodies of water using pontoons or floats. The panels sit above the water and utilize similar PV technology to produce energy like land-based options. However, what makes them particularly intriguing are their unique advantages, which set them apart from traditional solar panels and make them a compelling choice for the future of renewable energy.  Let’s explore these advantages in more detail.

• Space-saving: Floating solar systems require much less land area compared to ground-mounted solar farms, which is especially valuable in regions where land is scarce or expensive.
• Improved energy efficiency: Water helps cool the solar panels, which enhances their efficiency and performance. 
• Water conservation: The panels act as a barrier to reduce evaporation from water bodies, a major benefit in drought-prone areas. Floating solar panels help preserve vital water resources while simultaneously generating clean energy.

Floating Solar Promises Incredible Commercial Growth    

Companies and communities focused on renewable energy initiatives can benefit from incorporating floating solar options. One of the most promising developments is a recent study that found solar panel installation on federally controlled water reservoirs could generate up to 1,042 gigawatts of power—enough to power 100 million homes. 

These stats show floating solar’s vast potential. U.S. reservoirs alone could generate much-needed energy via solar power, underscored by the massive opportunity for commercial growth in renewable energy through floating solar solutions.

How Does Floating Solar Affect Electricians & Contractors?

Floating solar isn’t just a novel concept—it’s a practical solution already being implemented. For example, the U.S. Army at Fort Liberty partnered with Ameresco to develop a floating solar project to enhance energy resilience. The plan is to use two acres of water at Big Muddy Lake at Camp Mackall for the solar installation, which includes:

• 1.1 MW floating solar PV system with an on-site renewable energy generation
• 2 MW / 2 MWh battery energy storage system
• Boiler, HVAC, and lighting system upgrades
• Necessary water conservation systems

This is just one of many examples of floating solar being put into action, proving its viability and potential. This creates a major opportunity for electricians and contractors who understand the technology. 

Installing floating solar systems requires specialized electrical knowledge, including working with waterproof cabling, energy storage systems, and complex grid integrations. As utilities and municipalities invest in water-based solar installations, electrical professionals with this expertise will be in high demand.

A New Frontier for Energy Careers

The floating solar market in the U.S. is still in its early stages, but its potential is massive. This expansion means more jobs, contracts, and opportunities to shape the future of energy.

Now is the time for electricians and contractors to position themselves for success in the renewable energy market. Understanding the fundamentals of floating solar technology—its design, installation, and integration—can open doors to projects shaping the next generation of energy infrastructure.

Discover NECA–IBEW Local 48

The NECA–IBEW Local 48 partnership has been integral to Oregon and Southwest Washington’s electrical industry for over a century. Check out our membership page to learn more.

Public transit commuters take over 100 million trips yearly in Oregon and 151 million in Washington’s Puget Sound region. Workers, students, seniors, individuals with disabilities, families, and more all rely on accessible transit to stay connected and independent. However, reliability and safety can be challenging as technology and energy ramp up and transit vehicles age.

According to recent estimates, restoring transit systems to good repair could cost $20.3 million by 2033. Addressing the impacts of aging infrastructure in our public transit systems now maintains the reliability and safety of our public transit systems, 

3 Ways Aging Transit Systems Impact the Community 

Outdated transit systems can result in canceled trips, long and unpredictable wait times, frequent breakdowns, and overall frustration for commuters, impacting daily routines and accessibility. Without dependable, modern systems, economic, social, and environmental issues can arise. 

1) Economic Challenges for Citizens

As systems age and break down, ridership is affected, which not only directly impacts the overall economic health of the Pacific Northwest but also underscores the need for action.

• Loss of Earnings and Production: Unreliable transit hampers access to jobs, essential services, and businesses, impacting individual earnings and business productivity. 
• Diminished Job Creation: Areas with poor public transportation options are less likely to attract new businesses and developments, directly reducing job creation and community growth. 

• Impact on Business Revenue: The lack of investment in transit upgrades and modernization directly affects overall business gains. The yearly loss in the U.S. could amount to nearly $60 billion annually. 

• Lower Property Values: A robust and reliable public transit system can potentially boost property value by 150%. Due to factors like aging infrastructure, areas with poor or no transit could see stagnant property values, affecting local tax bases and investment in public services.

2) Financial Effects on the Civic Sector 

A lack of ridership caused by aging and outdated transit impacts civic infrastructure and public funds. As revenue from fares decreases, budgets available for maintenance and upgrades also diminish. This can perpetuate a cycle in which outdated infrastructure discourages riders, and fewer riders mean less funding to improve the system.

• Increased Maintenance Costs: Older infrastructure requires more frequent and costly repairs and maintenance, straining civic budgets. Aging public transit systems require constant upkeep, consume more energy, and lack modern efficiency, putting a heavier financial burden on cities to ensure safety and reliability. 

• Modernization Delays: Modern transit attracts more users, supports economic growth, and helps cities adapt to changing population and transportation needs. However, budget constraints may delay upgrades, leading to outdated infrastructure, decreased service quality, and rising maintenance costs.

3) Environmental Concerns 

Modern, efficient public transit is key to fighting climate change, easing traffic congestion, and boosting the economy. Well-maintained systems can reduce carbon emissions by 63 million metric tons annually. With approximately 85% of greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector tied to surface transit, upgrading these networks is crucial for a sustainable future.

• Higher Carbon Emission Output: If public transit becomes scarce or unpredictable, riders might choose personal vehicles as their primary transportation. This means more carbon emissions and air pollution.

• Increased Gasoline Consumption: More cars on the roads translates to higher gasoline usage. Without public transportation, the U.S. could see an extra 6 billion gallons of gas needed annually. 

Electrical Professionals Help Power Transit Upgrades  

Upgrading aging electrical transit infrastructure presents challenges, such as outdated switchgear, legacy wiring, and systems not built for today’s energy loads. However, these challenges also present opportunities for smarter upgrades, safer operations, and more reliable service for the communities that rely on public transit daily.

Electrical professionals play a critical role in managing these challenges. From ensuring proper lock-out/tag-out procedures to interpreting undocumented panel layouts, trained electricians can help ensure safe and successful transit modernization efforts. Their technical knowledge is essential to avoid:

• Equipment failures due to deferred or improper maintenance
• Damage caused by skipping steps or deviating from procedures during service work
• Safety risks from incomplete or missing system records

Transit upgrades are rarely simple. However, the electrical workforce is delivering scalable upgrades to prepare transit systems for the future. 

NECA–IBEW Local 48

The NECA–IBEW Local 48 partnership has been integral to Oregon and Southwest Washington’s electrical industry. Being part of our professional collective helps you position yourself as a leader in the electrical sector. Learn about membership and its benefits.

The U.S. electric grid is undergoing major modernization, driven by the rise of microgrid technology and battery electric storage systems (BESS). These innovations support more reliable, resilient power delivery, especially as demand grows for clean, on-demand energy. The Department of Energy’s Grid Overhaul with Proactive, High-Speed Undergrounding for Reliability, Resilience, and Security (GOPHURRS) program builds on this shift by advancing undergrounding efforts to make the grid faster, safer, and more secure.

Understanding the GOPHURRS Program

The GOPHURSS program is an initiative launched by the U.S. Department of Energy in 2024. It is designed to accelerate the shift from traditional overhead power lines to advanced underground systems.

The Objectives of the GOPHURRS Program 

• Upgrade Aging Infrastructure: Much of the U.S. electric grid was built decades ago and is struggling to meet today’s demands. Modernizing it helps prevent outages, keep up with rising energy demands, support clean energy, and prepare the grid for extreme weather and growing energy use. 
• Improve Grid Reliability, Security, and Resilience: Underground power lines are protected from wind, storms, and falling trees. That means fewer blackouts, better protection against natural disasters, and a more secure energy system overall.
• Use Real-Time Data to Speed Up Installs: Sophisticated geological sensing tools help utility crews evaluate subsurface terrain and identify potential obstacles before laying underground lines. The data occurs in real-time and can deliver results almost immediately. This means line installation happens more quickly and safely, reducing project delays and labor costs.

Why Undergrounding Matters

At its core, GOPHURRS seeks to reduce outages, prevent wildfires, and boost overall grid reliability by addressing one of the biggest vulnerabilities, exposure to environmental hazards, including:

• High Winds: Strong gusts can snap lines or topple poles
• Tree Strikes: Falling branches during storms are a major cause of outages
• Flying Debris: Can hit lines and cause damage
• Fire Risks: Damaged or downed lines can spark, increasing wildfire risks, especially in dry areas

Local Impact: GOPHURRS Funding & Projects in the Pacific Northwest 

GOPHURRS funding has allocated $34 million for 12 projects across 11 U.S. states. Locally, the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, WA, received $3,750,000 for a three-year real-time data capturing and analysis project. 

• Project Focus: Developing a new system that quickly turns underground survey data into digital maps and augmented reality views to spot utilities and obstacles before burying power lines. What usually takes weeks could now happen in minutes. 
• Benefits: This could speed up projects, cut costs, and change the way electrical professionals work, shifting their roles toward interpreting real-time data and managing advanced mapping tools.

These innovations mean faster deployment, fewer delays, and new opportunities for the electrical workforce in the Pacific Northwest, especially those ready to work with next-generation underground systems.

The Role of Electrical Professionals in the GOPHURRS Program

This program presents electrical professionals with opportunities to expand their roles. As automation becomes integral to mapping, drilling, and conduit installation, electricians can develop specialized skills in intelligent systems integration. Adapting to these new technologies is beneficial and integral to the success of the modernization process. 

Knowledge of renewable energy systems and smart grid technologies will also be essential, enabling electricians to support sustainable infrastructure. These evolving responsibilities promote advanced planning, problem-solving, and tech-forward expertise in the field and open new avenues for growth and advancement.

Rapid advancements in the electrical trade make continuing education and technical training vital to staying competitive. By keeping up with emerging technologies and consumer trends, professionals can offer innovative solutions and remain in high demand.

About NECA–IBEW Local 48 

For more than 110 years, the NECA–IBEW Local 48 partnership has been at the heart of serving Oregon and Southwest Washington’s electrical industry. By joining our skilled community, you become part of a legacy of excellence, innovation, and progress, shaping a brighter, more efficient future for the region. Learn about membership and its benefits.