Evaluation of the Risk of Geomagnetic Induced Currents (GIC's) in Power Transformers of the National Electrical System

Solar activity presents a potential risk of causing damage to different technological sectors such as communications and electrical networks. A total or partial collapse of an electrical network by an extreme solar storm would bring catastrophic consequences to the daily chores of our society. Power transformers connected in strategic locations of an interconnected electrical system such as that of the Mexican Republic, are at risk of suffering permanent damage due to geomagnetically induced currents caused by an extreme solar storm or cumulative damage along many years. The present work indicates the risk of the strategic power transformers connected to the national electricity grid in the face of a severe solar storm event and the need to develop a contingency plan in Mexico in face of the latent threat of this natural phenomenon.