Wildfire Risk Reduction: Technologies and Strategies That Actually Work

Where to invest for maximum impact

With catastrophic wildfire seasons becoming the norm, utilities in fire-prone regions face mounting pressure from regulators, ratepayers and insurers to demonstrate measurable risk reduction. The question isn't whether to invest in wildfire mitigation, it's where to invest for maximum impact.

ABB supports utilities with a comprehensive approach to wildfire risk reduction. From undergrounding initiatives that eliminate ignition sources to advanced protection systems that minimize fault energy when de-energization isn't an option.

The numbers tell the story: utilities estimate that undergrounding eliminates nearly all wildfire ignition risk from converted lines, while PSPS (Public Safety Power Shutoff) events, though disruptive, remain approximately 95% effective at reducing catastrophic wildfire risk during extreme weather conditions.