Why Critical Industries Are Choosing CMCE for Lightning Protection
Why Critical Industries Are Choosing CMCE for Lightning Protection
From powering cities to keeping people connected and safeguarding digital assets, industries like oil & gas, telecommunications, and data centers keep the world running. But these operations share a common and underestimated threat — lightning.
With more severe storms and a growing dependence on sensitive technology, many organizations are moving beyond traditional protection methods and adopting CMCE (Charge Motion Control Equipment) Lightning Suppression to prevent lightning strikes before they happen.
Why Traditional Lightning Protection Falls Short
The U.S. experiences around 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning strikes each year, causing up to $10 billion in damages — from fires and equipment loss to outages and safety hazards.
Conventional systems, like lightning rods and surge arresters, don’t stop strikes — they simply redirect the energy once it hits. The CMCE Lightning Suppressor works differently, neutralizing the electrical field so lightning strikes can’t form in the first place.
Oil & Gas: Reducing Fire and Explosion Risk
Storage tanks, pipelines, and wellheads in remote, open areas are prime lightning targets. In one review, 16 of 20 major petroleum tank accidents were caused by lightning, leading to fires, explosions, and environmental damage.
Why oil & gas operators choose CMCE:
- No external power needed – ideal for remote sites.
- Reduced risks of fires and explosions.
- Safer working conditions during storms.

Telecommunication: Keeping Networks Online
Cell towers and relay stations are essential for communications, but are also lightning magnets due to their height and location. A single strike can knock out services for thousands.
How CMCE protects telecom:
- Prevents the initial conditions for a strike.
- Provides continuous, passive protection.
- Reduces repair costs and service downtime.
Data Centers: Protecting Critical Digital Assets
Downtime costs can be staggering, and lightning-induced surges threaten both hardware and data integrity. Even layered protection can fall short.
Why CMCE works for data centers:
- Stops lightning formation near facilities.
- Low maintenance, always active.
- Scalable for small edge sites to large colocation hubs.
The Future of Lightning Protection
For critical infrastructure, the CMCE system isn’t just an alternative — it’s a smarter, more reliable future for lightning protection and business operations.
Don’t Settle for Less. Choose the Best in Protection.
Contact us today at (888) 318-2333 or cmcesales@capitolelectronics.com to request a custom quote for your critical infrastructure.