FortisAlberta is reducing wildfire risks, increasing reliability, and enhancing grid safety as the first utility in Canada to implement Early Fault Detection (EFD) technology. This technology identifies potential faults in the distribution system before they escalate, enabling timely interventions that protect communities and ensure uninterrupted power delivery.
EFD technology detects early signs of stress and degradation in critical distribution assets—such as transformers, switchgear, conductor and insulators—and monitors for threats like tree encroachment. By analyzing unique radio frequency noise emitted by failing equipment, the system can pinpoint anomalies within a 10-metre range. This precise detection allows for swift maintenance responses, significantly reducing the likelihood of component failures that could lead to wildfires.
Since its introduction in 2022, EFD has proven highly effective. In its first year with sensors installed across 400 kilometres of power lines, the technology detected multiple critical issues, including broken conductor strands, hazardous conditions caused by wildlife, and cracked insulators. These early alerts have enabled rapid interventions, preventing potential outages and mitigating wildfire risks associated with equipment failure.
In 2023, the program was expanded by an additional 1,600 kilometres and is expected to cover another 2,200 kilometres by the end of 2024.
