Utility technology has been making huge advancements in the efficiency of our power grid. Power plants have become far better at adjusting electricity production with usage, greatly reducing waste and costs. With each advancement, we are getting closer to a more perfect system. However, the weather often reminds us that we are far from perfect and that we still have a long way to go.
Drones, power line sensors, and artificial intelligence (AI) are some of the most promising tools needed to become more reactive to the unpredictable forces of nature.Â
Our infrastructure is aging
The elephant in the room is our infrastructure. Transmission and distribution resources need major upgrades, repair, or complete replacement. In fact, it is estimated that 60% of American distribution lines are operating beyond their 50-year life expectancy. This undoubtedly creates problems during extreme or prolonged weather patterns. The Texas Power Crisis of 2021 and the frequent power-equipment-caused fires in California are prime examples.
In California, PG&E currently conducts Public Safety Power Shutoffs that occur during high heat and high wind days to reduce the risk of causing another major fire. These shutoffs cut power to millions of people at once. Frequent and daily blackouts should not be the new normal, especially as our technology continues to improve.
Current and Emerging Technologies
Rapid efforts are being made to update infrastructure and implement new technology. PG&E is currently testing wildfire detection systems on watchtowers that use AI and high-definition cameras to detect smoke. These systems alert officials in real-time when they suspect smoke. However, these systems are not yet capable of detecting the exact location of the smoke.
Drones
The use of drones is quickly becoming standard for utilities. What helicopter pilots once did is now being put into the hands of workers on the ground. Being safer and more cost-effective, drones with high-definition cameras can inspect power line and power pole integrity. They are further inspecting tree and brush coverage near power lines, alerting utilities of potential vegetation hazards.
Drones are also stringing power lines and will soon be able to conduct additional types of power line repair and maintenance. AI will soon emerge enabling drones to survey power lines without human operation. Data generated from these surveys will require analysis, which AI can conduct as well.
Power line sensors
Power line sensors are just beginning to emerge onto the utility scene. Powered by battery or solar, these devices attach directly to a power line and are armed with several sensors. Being wireless via WIFI or cellular connection, they can report data immediately and notify officials of issues based on its exact location.Â
These sensors are capable of detecting things like inclination change, which can alert to a power line failure or major power line sag. For example, some power lines can withstand the weight of a large branch, but the weight itself won’t trigger a power shutoff. But an attached sensor is capable of alerting officials if a line is leaning an abnormal amount.
Wind detection and line sway are other detections possible, as well as vibrations and load variation that could point to corrosion along the power pole. Future sensors might come equipped with cameras, temperature gauges, barometers, and more. These devices could also one-day monitor electricity flow along the power lines.Â
What’s next?
As data grows, the need for qualified professionals capable of analyzing that data will grow as well. Utilities will have to make adjustments like hiring and training more workers in these fields. Alternatively, partnering with smaller firms with expertise in drones, sensors, and AI will be a wise move.
Creating a more perfect grid will require leaps of faith as these technologies roll out. More testing and fine tuning will certainly take place. Don’t ever hesitate to share ideas for improvement from any of your equipment suppliers. Your idea could be the next big thing in the industry while saving lives and money.