An Energy-Focused Analysis of Extreme Humid Heat in the Southeast United States

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that rising temperatures lead to a higher demand in energy (for cooling), which can increase the chance of blackouts or other power disruptions. Extreme humid heat events are particularly impactful on energy consumption, especially in the Southeast United States. The purpose of this study is two-fold: To analyze the synoptic scale characteristics of extreme (top 1%) humid heat events, and to analyze the energy-consumption response to these extreme events. Wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) has been shown to be the most representative metric in analyzing the impacts that humid heat events have on people. By using WBGT and energy consumption records, this study first investigates the synoptic-scale causes of extreme humid heat events across the Southeast United States, dating back to 1950. In addition to utilizing the WBGT, this study examines Net Energy Usage from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), from 2015 to present, in response to extreme humid heat events. Energy consumption in the Southeast U.S. heavily relies on non-renewable energy sources, such as natural gas, coal, oil, and nuclear energy. Non-renewable energy consumption is understood to contribute greenhouse gases to our atmosphere, thus impacting the climate. Analyzing energy consumption related to extreme humid heat events will improve energy forecasts, and result in less strain on the U.S. energy grid. The findings from this study will enhance forecasting accuracy, support the need to transition to more sustainable energy solutions, and help mitigate the risks posed by climate change and extreme weather events, ensuring a more reliable energy supply during critical extreme humid heat events.