While microgrids create small islands where the lights stay on, PG&E is also adding equipment to some power lines that can limit a shutoff to a smaller area. That could dramatically reduce the number of people who lose power.
The shooting at a San Jose VTA rail yard on Wednesday killed nine employees who had been bus and light rail operators, mechanics, linemen and an assistant superintendent over the course of their careers. Their ages ranged from 29 to 63. One had worked for the Valley Transportation Authority since 1999.