PG&E using improved tech and planning in hopes of keeping power on, reducing fire risk NBC Bay Area [Video]

With a forecast that suggests the Bay Area is about to see the hottest days it’s seen this year, PG&E said it’s prepping to make sure the lights stay on and fire risk around its lines stays low.

At the 24/7 operation at the Hazard Awareness and Warning Center in San Pablo is where PG&E identifies and tracks any potential weather dangers using early detection — including tools like AI — to identify a hazard as quickly as possible.

“The sooner you address the incident the less the impact. So, by being able to put crews on fires faster, that impact is reduced and therefore people’s lives can be saved,” said Jim Ridway, senior manager of the Hazard Awareness and Warning Center.  

Reducing wildfire risk and strengthening the electric grid is the goal. As we approach the hotter months the utility believes two years of rain and no drought conditions …