FirstEnergy launches tech to prevent tree-related power outages in Ohio

In September 2024, FirstEnergy Corp. announced the deployment of an innovative program aimed at predicting and reducing tree-related power outages across its service area, which spans six states in the U.S. The Advanced Vegetation Analytics Tool (AVAT) utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze various data sources, including soil conditions, weather patterns, and historical outage records. This proactive approach is particularly crucial ahead of storm seasons, as trees are the leading cause of outages in the electric utility sector. The AVAT tool is designed to identify high-risk trees that could potentially fall on power lines, allowing the company to address these issues before they lead to outages. FirstEnergy's service territory includes densely forested regions and diverse terrains, making vegetation management a complex task. The company complements the AVAT with traditional vegetation management practices, including aerial inspections and a four-year tree trimming cycle. By integrating advanced technology with established methods, FirstEnergy aims to enhance the reliability of its electric distribution system, which serves approximately six million customers. The initiative reflects the company's commitment to operational excellence and safety, ensuring that power lines remain clear of vegetation that could disrupt service. Overall, the introduction of the AVAT tool represents a significant step forward in the electric utility industry, showcasing how technology can be leveraged to improve service reliability and reduce the impact of natural elements on power distribution.