Post-storm analysis from satellite

The distribution network needs to be more resilient and use digital data to start preventing and measuring risk for existing infrastructure. Overhead lines in the distribution network is one of the most important components for supplying reliable electrical power, ESO owns around 40 000 km of medium voltage lines (10 and 35kV). With lidar data, ESO already can analyze and enable proactive planning in vegetation and defects management areas. The next step is to provide a solution for post-storm analysis which needs to be more operative.

Storms and heavy snow are still causing a lot of damage to the distribution network operators. The goal after such events is always to ensure grid reliability and power supply as soon as possible, using as many means as needed. Currently, operation brigades and contractors need to go to the field and find existing problems in the network, in many cases walking km of lines or in other cases helicopters can be used to evaluate the current status and find main points with damage.

Post-storm analysis from satellite data using synthetic aperture radar information is a new solution that could help improve the current situation. Such radar data is detailed enough and works despite the bad and cloudy weather. Pictures are taken before and after the storm to identify the main areas where the grid has main issues.​

The pilot project was initiated to test such a solution with historical storm data. The project started in 2022 Q1 and Kaunas region archive data was tested to evaluate post-storm effects using SAR satellites data. Results were promising, where all of the defects in that area were found with additional false positives included. The next step is to evaluate and prepare for additional proof of concept using real-time data from satellites and assess damages after a real storm.

If you want to know more or have your own ideas or solutions, please contact us – [email protected]