There are many unique dynamics at work that create the need for a more resilient and reliable electrical grid. Fortifying the electric grid against the threat of wildfires has become a major priority for utilities, and many are already accelerating prevention efforts.

Although there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to reducing wildfire risk, many utilities are focused on approaches that prioritize speed, added intelligence and cost efficiency. Here’s how you can implement these strategies to strengthen the grid:

1. Implement solutions delivering immediate results over large areas

This approach includes immediate methods for reducing risk over wide areas. There are a variety of traditional and widely used equipment – such as fuses, reclosers, switchgear, distribution class arresters – that can be upgraded or replaced with site-ready, advanced solutions.

For example, fuses are effective and ubiquitous across distribution systems. By upgrading from other fuse styles to current-limiting fuses, utilities can significantly reduce the risk of a sparking incident, especially in exposed, dry areas surrounding distribution equipment.
 

Full-range current-limiting fuses can be used for transformer protection, capacitator protection and sectionalizing. These solutions typically incorporate a design that avoids sparking. Additionally, their design helps limit electrical and mechanical stresses on the protected equipment.

Taking resilience a step further, advances in products designed to support underground power systems are becoming a more cost-effective option for some applications. Solutions like solid dielectric switchgear, which offer a smaller footprint and wide range of configuration options compared to traditional switchgear solutions, are helping many utilities support a retrofitted underground strategy for high-risk areas.

2. Targeted upgrades of utility distribution systems with digital solutions supporting a smarter and more resilient grid

Creating a more resilient, intelligent grid will be essential to help mitigate the risk of wildfires and support the energy transition underway. While it is difficult to predict when an incident may happen, a fortified electrical distribution system can help utilities address issues quickly to minimize customer and environmental impact.

At the turn of the twentieth century, lookout towers were the primary means to spot a wildfire. We’ve come far from that approach. There are early warning systems based on precise condition monitoring and rapid communications. These systems can be configured to trigger alarms for management and maintenance teams to let them know exactly when, and where, dangerous conditions exist so they can be addressed efficiently.

Utilities around the country are working to incorporate cutting-edge intelligence to provide insight into grid conditions through powerful software. For example, the largest utilities in California are using grid planning software to provide powerful modeling capabilities and analytics to gain cutting-edge intelligence into the grid.

Utilities can also use intelligent grid automation schemes to automatically and remotely isolate and manage imminent risks. Solutions such as feeder automation software work with recloser controls, not only to isolate impacted areas of the grid but also to automatically reconfigure the system for significant reliability improvements and minimal customer impact.

Further, there is hardware that can support more in-depth and accurate data acquisition. High-fidelity sensors based on optical technology can provide new levels of accuracy and precision for both voltage and current, painting a more detailed picture of what’s happening on the grid.

By implementing these technologies across the distribution system, utilities can closely monitor high-threat conditions and automatically gather the data needed to flag dangerous conditions for further analysis and corrective action.

3. Continue research and development investments that advance grid modernization through innovative and field-proven strategies

Collaborations between utilities, industry organizations, manufacturers, universities and research organizations will ultimately develop new strategies to help reduce risk. Through these partnerships, the electric power industry is innovating, testing and deploying new approaches to address complex challenges such as wildfires.

For example, manufacturers are working closely with utilities in every region of the world to integrate modeling software solutions into daily operations that can help utilities better manage their grid modernization efforts.

Wildfire prevention efforts continue to expand

Utilities are prioritizing effective wildfire mitigation strategies and regional codes and standards such as California’s Senate Bill 901 are helping address risk. In California, the three largest investor-owned utilities (IOUs) are estimating a $10 billion investment over the next three years to reduce the risk of grid-sparked fires (source: GTM Grid Edge, Feb. 10 2020).

Utilities can work closely with manufacturers to expand and accelerate their wildfire prevention efforts and incorporate solutions that strengthen and modernize the grid. Creating a more fortified electrical system today, with intelligent digitalized solutions and site-ready fire-hardening technologies, will not only help address wildfire risk – but also help better prepare the electrical grid for the demands of tomorrow.