Xcel Energy recently outlined plans for more wildfire mitigation as well as expanded service in the area using energy from wind, solar, and natural gas projects and battery storage.<\/p>\n
On Aug. 4, the utility company said Southwestern Public Service Company (SPS), a subsidiary of Xcel Energy, filed a Wildfire Mitigation Plan with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT).<\/p>\n
"Wildfire mitigation work is not new to our region, but as the risk evolves, we are strategically partnering with our communities to address the issue," said Brad Baldridge, interim president, Xcel Energy \u2013 Texas. "Our purpose is straightforward: Reduce wildfire risk, protect our communities and provide the safe, reliable service our customers depend on every day."<\/p>\n
Related story: $113M grant to improve electric reliability in Panhandle, South Plains<\/p>\n
The Wildfire Mitigation Plan provides a framework for assessing wildfire risk and prioritizing mitigation activities, and it builds on Xcel Energy's existing safety, reliability and resiliency protocols as conditions, technology and industry practices evolve, the company said. It also supports greater visibility into wildfire risk through tools and practices that improve awareness of weather conditions, equipment performance and potential risks.<\/p>\n
The plan takes a "Layers of Defense" approach, incorporating situational awareness tools, programs to enhance system resiliency, operational mitigations and customer support.<\/p>\n
Weather stations that track localized conditions contributing to wildfire risk<\/p>\n
AI-enabled wildfire detection cameras that help identify and verify potential fire activity<\/p>\n
Drone-based inspections and field technologies that improve equipment visibility and system performance<\/p>\n
Meteorology, fire science and operational expertise to help evaluate conditions and guide response efforts during elevated wildfire conditions<\/p>\n
Increased inspections, equipment repairs and vegetation management in elevated wildfire risk areas<\/p>\n
Distribution modernization, including device upgrades that enable Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS) and improve system operation during elevated wildfire conditions<\/p>\n
Transmission and distribution upgrades, including line rebuilds, conductor replacements, pole replacements, equipment upgrades and targeted undergrounding<\/p>\n
Fault indicators that help identify fault locations and support faster response<\/p>\n
"It's part of my job to go out and talk to volunteer firefighters and first responders and find out what they need to keep their communities safe, especially where wildfires are most likely to occur," said Wes Reeves, wildfire mitigation senior community engagement manager, Xcel Energy. "I hear their feedback often, and tools such as wildfire detection cameras provide them with critical situational awareness. We're thankful for our partners as we work together to reduce the risk of fires."<\/p>\n