IBM has developed a new technology to help reduce the number of power network failures. The technique is mainly aimed at predicting where and when trees and other vegetation start to pose a threat to power cables.
That reports news agency Reuters based on news from IBM. Plants can in some cases cause disruptions to energy networks, which is especially the case when they start to grow over power cables, for example. Energy suppliers are tackling this problem with regular inspections and the necessary pruning work.
Combining a lot of data
IBM’s new system uses data collected using satellites, drones, air travel, sensors and weather models. This data is used to map, monitor and maintain the condition and maintenance of the many thousands of kilometres of electricity networks.
The IBM system identifies, but also predicts when there may be a power outage. The system can therefore help to improve the reliability of electricity networks. At the same time, it can prevent fire from breaking out as a result of broken cables and the long search for broken network points after a storm.
Minimize impact
Every company is affected by the weather, says Cameron Clayton, the general manager of Watson Media and Weather at IBM versus Reuters. But for energy companies and their customers, this can mean the difference between being able to turn on the light and heating their homes.
In order to avoid these problems, IBM has developed this system. The ability to combine weather data with satellite and sensor data provides utilities with powerful insights that help them improve their operations and reduce the impact on their customers.
This news article was automatically translated from Dutch to give Techzine.eu a head start. All news articles after September 1, 2019 are written in native English and NOT translated. All our background stories are written in native English as well. For more information read our launch article.
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