In Louisiana, what began as a typical August afternoon took an unexpected and disruptive turn when a Mylar balloon became entangled in overhead power lines. This seemingly harmless incident led to a significant power outage, leaving 15,000 residents without electricity and forcing a boil water advisory due to the interruption in the city’s water pumping stations. The incident not only highlighted the fragility of the above-ground utility infrastructure but also underscored the broader vulnerabilities that communities face due to reliance on overhead power lines.

This incident in Louisiana is part of a larger, troubling trend. Across the United States, Mylar balloons alone were responsible for 582 power outages last year, affecting approximately 800,000 customers. Public Service Electric & Gas, New Jersey’s largest utility, reported a 26% increase in outages caused by Mylar balloons over a five-year period. These outages are more than just minor inconveniences; they can have serious implications for public safety and essential services, as demonstrated by the Louisiana event.

The Case for Undergrounding Utility Lines

Scenic America has long advocated for the undergrounding of utility lines, a practice that could mitigate the risk of such outages while offering additional benefits. Undergrounding involves burying electrical and other utility lines below the surface, protecting them from external elements like severe weather, accidents, and, in cases like Louisiana’s, errant balloons.

The primary advantage of undergrounding is the significant reduction in outages caused by external factors. Unlike overhead lines, which are exposed to the elements, underground lines are protected from high winds, falling trees, and other disruptions. This increased reliability is particularly important as climate change continues to drive more frequent and severe weather events.

Aesthetic and Environmental Benefits

Beyond improving reliability, undergrounding also offers substantial aesthetic and environmental benefits. Overhead wires and poles often mar scenic landscapes, detracting from the natural beauty of communities. By moving these lines underground, we can restore and preserve the visual appeal of neighborhoods, parks, and scenic byways. This is especially important in areas known for their natural beauty, where unsightly infrastructure can significantly diminish the experience for residents and visitors alike.

Furthermore, undergrounding can have positive environmental impacts. Removing poles and wires reduces the risk of bird strikes and other wildlife-related incidents, contributing to the protection of local ecosystems.

The Economic Rationale

While the initial costs of undergrounding utility lines are higher than maintaining overhead wires, the long-term economic benefits are substantial. Underground lines require less maintenance, experience fewer outages, and have a longer lifespan than their overhead counterparts. Over time, this can result in lower costs for utility companies and, ultimately, for consumers.

In light of incidents like the recent Mylar balloon outage in Louisiana, it is evident that investing in underground infrastructure is not merely an aesthetic choice—it is a crucial step toward creating a more resilient, reliable, and safe energy grid. Communities that have already embraced undergrounding have seen firsthand the benefits, from fewer outages to more beautiful, unspoiled landscapes.

Scenic America urges municipalities, utility companies, and policymakers to prioritize the undergrounding of power lines and other energy infrastructure. As our climate continues to change and the demand for reliable energy grows, the need for resilient infrastructure will only become more pressing. By investing in undergrounding today, we can protect our communities from future disruptions, enhance public safety, and preserve the beauty of America’s landscapes for generations to come.