Dublin has experienced several Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events in response to severe weather conditions to help prevent wildfires. These events can last up to 3-4 days, during which traffic signals typically lose functionality. Regardless of the length of the power outage, safety at signalized intersections is compromised.
To mitigate future PSPS events during the wildfire season or other power outage events and natural disasters, the City of Dublin is installing batteries and fuel cells that will provide backup power to maintain full operation of the City’s traffic signal system at 22 key intersections. These improvements will supply up to 72 hours of backup power that will automatically turn on during power outages.
This project aligns with the goals in the City’s Climate Action Plan 2030 and Beyond by implementing microgrids to enable uninterrupted power during times of grid instability in support of Measure CF-2. The batteries and fuel cells will also support the City’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as current backup power is provided by diesel generators.