Analysis of Operational Data: A Proof of Concept for Assessing Electrical Infrastructure Impact

Infrastructure variables required for a community or society to function include basic facilities, services, and installations; and these variables can impact many aspects of daily life. The structure and functionality of the electrical grid in an operating area can affect multiple operational variables. Other infrastructure sectors that rely on the electrical grid can fail when electricity is disrupted. Thus, the impact of electricity in a society is vital for prosperity and security and expands the broad impact on economic and social well-being. This study used remote-sensing data to examine the electrical system and power-grid functionality for Dhaka, Bangladesh. We focused on the transmission and distribution networks, the network patterns, and the electrical capacity. In addition, we used the pattern of a power outage (i.e., the 1 November 2014 blackout) and the duration of the outage to assess the affected neighborhood and the power-production disruptions at other major power stations within the country. When we combined the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) data with the panchromatic sharpening of WorldView-2 imagery, we were able to focus on the affected areas, thereby narrowing the search for electrical-grid components. This study is an example for understanding the dynamic physical environment relevant to military operations. The original document contains color images.