I doubt very many of you are in charge of power for a gigantic organization (or know who is in charge). In either case, you already know that a backup generator must be part of your system. That’s essential in the 3^rd world and a “nice to have” in any part of the U.S., except places that never have earthquakes, tornadoes, heavy snow, heat waves or floods, or a place that does have an antiquated power distribution system (the entire country, especially Texas).

The most important thing for Heathrow to consider (as well as other major power users) is dual, separated power sources. Not from the same substation (fires or transformer failures). Not from the same direction, nor through the same conduit (backhoes). It must be power from two widely separated substations, coming into the building from two directions, with switching equipment to match. Does that cost? Through the nose. Is it worth it? Yes, because it usually works. Any airport in the world that doesn’t have that system from now on is run by penny-pinching idiots.

However, no system is idiot-proof because idiots are so ingenious. The daily newspaper in Portland, Ore. had such a dual-supply system. During switching gear testing, two power mains were accidentally connected. Utilites were buried downtown, so every manhole cover in a 20 block radius was blown into the air. No one was killed, but that’s a lot of manhole covers. The building ran on the world’s largest extension cord for a week.

The “only necessary power” philosophy is the best cost/benefit ratio almost everywhere. In a hospital, generator power goes to lights, elevators, and life-maintaining medical equipent. Air conditioning is nice but not necessary. In a closed building, automatic switches should activate a less-power ventilation system.

Next time you’re in a hospital, note the power outlets with red outlet covers. They are the last to lose power. That’s where your ventilator is plugged in, but not your charger. Also not a bad idea.