Blackout
The term blackout in peacetime refers to a cessation of electrical energy through electric power transmission systems. In wartime it can also mean the minimizing of external light sources. In general during peacetime, a blackout is an unintentional total electrical power outage. It is sometimes contrasted with the term brownout which is a reduction in power, and selected power outages, when demand exceeds supply (see rolling blackout). However a blackout can be intentional, for instance collectively minimizing external light (during war), including upwards directed (or reflected) light, to "hide" from enemy aircraft (in the case of an occupied country: the enemy of the occupying force). Additionally, intentional blackouts can be used in coastal regions to prevent city lights from outlining ships (shore-side blackouts). This makes ships hard for enemy submarines to detect.
See also 2003 North America blackout Northeast Blackout of 1965 communications blackout List of power outages Indoor climate control (air conditioning) can generate an excess of demand. Renewable energy to supply aditional energy.
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