The urgency of adopting advanced wildfire prevention measures was accentuated by the devastating Marshall fire in December 2021. This destructive wildfire, which claimed lives and caused extensive property damage, swept through populated areas, challenging the notion that wildfires were limited to forested regions.
While Xcel Energy refrained from speculating on the impact of Pano AI’s technology during the Marshall fire, the utility expects the system to enhance early fire detection capabilities. The goal is to direct resources more efficiently, aiding in quicker and more precise firefighting responses.
A Holistic Approach
Xcel Energy’s wildfire mitigation program encompasses a range of tools and strategies.
In addition to AI-powered cameras, the utility employs drones and helicopters for inspections of power lines and equipment. This creates three-dimensional maps to facilitate enhanced assessments. The program also involves the replacement of aging equipment. And clearing vegetation around power lines to minimize fire risks.
