Smart Grids, Safe Lands: Reducing Wildfire Risks With Technology
T&D World
April 25, 2024
by Charlie Nobles
Most wildfires result from nature, such as lightning strikes or human activity, including unattended campfires and arson. Yet, according to the National Interagency Fire Center, 5% of wildfires in the U.S. are caused by electric utility infrastructure, such as power lines, downed poles and transformers, often with tragic losses of life and property.
In 2023, while Canada experienced a severe and intense wildfire season, a quiet season in the U.S. was marred by the country's deadliest wildfire in over a century on Maui. Hawaiian Electric Co. Inc. acknowledged its power lines started the fire, which claimed 115 lives.
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