Avista makes temporary changes to power line operations for summer in Idaho
In light of the arid conditions and escalating wildfire threat in their regions, Avista has decided to make temporary adjustments to their power line operations in Washington and Idaho. For more than two decades, Avista has been implementing this alteration known as Fire Safety Mode as a precautionary measure against wildfires.
Under Fire Safety Mode, the response of the system to faults, such as trees or other debris touching power lines and causing service interruptions during high-risk weather conditions, is modified from the standard procedures. Instead of automatically attempting to restore power, Fire Safety Mode may necessitate a physical inspection of the power line section before re-energizing it. Although this approach could prolong outage times, it significantly reduces the risk of fire outbreaks, thereby becoming an essential part of Avista’s wildfire prevention strategy.
Heather Rosentrater, Avista’s president and CEO, emphasized the company’s ongoing commitment to ensuring community safety from wildfire hazards. She highlighted the importance of continually improving systems and collaborating with local partners to prioritize safety in all their operations.
Since unveiling its Wildfire Resiliency Plan in 2020, Avista has actively undertaken various measures to strengthen their power grid in high fire-risk areas. These initiatives include replacing wooden transmission poles with steel ones, installing fire-retardant mesh at pole bases, and substituting vegetation management practices to minimize wildfire risks.
Avista’s grid-hardening efforts align with their overarching goal of enhancing system reliability and withstanding fire-related challenges. By making these proactive adjustments to their operations, Avista aims to mitigate the threat of wildfires and protect the safety of the communities they serve.
The utility company’s adaptive approach to power line operations in the face of increasing wildfire risks demonstrates their dedication to safeguarding communities and reducing the impact of natural disasters on their customers. As climate change continues to elevate the likelihood of extreme weather events, Avista’s Fire Safety Mode and wildfire mitigation strategies stand as a testament to their unwavering commitment to community safety in the face of evolving environmental challenges.