GridOS^® Visual Intelligence

Utility vegetation management refers to the process of eliminating vegetation that poses a risk of damaging power grid assets. The most common examples of this include removing branches and dead and/or structurally unstable trees that are growing too close to power lines. Utility vegetation management is especially important for areas frequently struck by severe weather events, like hurricanes, tornados, blizzards, and wildfires.

Utility vegetation management can be expensive and inefficient if not performed correctly, so applying AI/ML-powered technology is critical. GridOS Visual Intelligence platform analyzes a variety of satellite, LiDAR, and conventional imagery and overlays them with network maps to identify the precise areas where vegetation must be trimmed to eliminate the risk of damage. Trimming crews can use this information to take fast and accurate corrective actions, whether pruning or removing it completely.

Satellite and LIDAR imagery work best for different scenarios. Satellite imagery is useful for identifying growth patterns and problem areas on a wide scale, or in areas not easily accessible by drones or workers. However, more-detailed imagery on specific vegetation is best obtained via LiDAR. Visual Intelligence software can accommodate either type of imagery (or a combination of both!) for any given use case.

While it's difficult to predict exactly where a wildfire will ignite next, electric utilities can minimize significant disruptions and damages by keeping an eye on high-risk locations, in particular (1) areas of overgrown and/or dead vegetation, and (2) areas where wildfires have occurred in the past. A great way to identify these high-risk locations is by leveraging GridOS Visual Intelligence platform. Visual Intelligence identifies areas of overgrown and dead vegetation that could ignite and cause damage to power assets, enabling the utility to dispatch trimming crews to the precise high-risk areas. In addition, utilities can analyze data from the United States Geological Survey or other entities to identify historical wildfire burn patterns and determine if any of their crucial assets are in harm's way.

Visual Intelligence’s AI/ML-powered image analysis is useful for more than just utility vegetation management, it can also help with asset health monitoring. Scan imagery can also reveal damage or deterioration of power assets, such as corrosion on transformers or transmission towers, leaning power poles, and more. This enables proactive maintenance to correct any issues before they can cause significant power grid disruptions, or worse, complete failures.

Vegetation management software is used to improve the utility vegetation management (UVM) process through the application of digitalization and technology. The best vegetation management helps utilities and their UVM crews identify the precise locations where vegetation poses a threat to grid assets, enabling faster, more precise interventions.

Vegetation management is a crucial aspect of maintaining the reliability and safety of power transmission and distribution systems. It involves managing the growth of trees and other vegetation near power lines to prevent outages and ensure the safety of the electrical infrastructure. Common methods and tools used for vegetation management include:

Tree Trimming and Pruning: Regular trimming and pruning of trees near power lines are essential to prevent branches from coming into contact with electrical equipment. This is often done using specialized equipment, such as aerial lifts, chainsaws, and pole pruners.

Herbicides and Chemical Control: In some cases, chemical herbicides are used to control vegetation growth. This method can be effective for managing undergrowth and preventing the regrowth of unwanted vegetation.

Mechanical Clearing: Mechanical equipment, such as brush cutters, mowers, and mulchers, are used to clear vegetation in larger areas or more difficult terrains. These tools help maintain clearances and manage growth effectively.

Remote Sensing and Monitoring: Technologies such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and drones are increasingly used to monitor vegetation growth and assess areas that require management. These tools provide detailed data on vegetation height and density, enabling more precise and targeted interventions. Satellite imagery is also frequently used to monitor very large and/or inaccessible areas.

Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM): IVM is a holistic approach that combines various techniques to manage vegetation sustainably. It involves assessing the ecosystem, selecting appropriate control methods, and monitoring outcomes to achieve long-term management goals.

Contractor Services: Utilities often employ specialized vegetation management contractors who have the expertise and equipment to perform these tasks safely and efficiently.

Effective vegetation management is essential to prevent outages, reduce fire risks, and ensure the safety and reliability of power systems. By using a combination of these methods, utilities can manage vegetation growth proactively and sustainably.

Vegetation management is essential for maintaining the safety, reliability, and efficiency of power transmission and distribution systems. Here are several reasons why it is important:

Preventing Power Outages: Trees and vegetation can interfere with power lines, especially during storms or high winds, causing outages. Effective management helps ensure that branches and trees do not come into contact with electrical equipment, minimizing the risk of service disruptions.

Safety: Overgrown vegetation near power lines can pose significant safety hazards, including the risk of electrical fires or electrocution. Proper management reduces these risks, protecting both the public and utility workers.

Reducing Fire Risks: Vegetation can act as fuel for wildfires, particularly in dry or windy conditions. By managing vegetation growth around power lines, the risk of fires starting or spreading is reduced, enhancing the safety of surrounding areas.

Regulatory Compliance: Utilities are often required to adhere to regulatory standards and guidelines for vegetation management to ensure safe and reliable power delivery. Effective vegetation management helps meet these requirements and avoid potential penalties.

Operational Efficiency: By preventing outages and reducing maintenance needs, vegetation management contributes to the overall efficiency of power systems, ensuring reliable service delivery to consumers.

Overall, vegetation management is a critical component of utility operations, essential for maintaining grid reliability, ensuring safety, and supporting environmental and regulatory goals.