Hawaiian Electric Deploys AI-Assisted Video Cameras for Early Detection of Wildfires
Hawaiian Electric has begun deploying a network of high-resolution video cameras using artificial intelligence (AI) technology to provide enhanced situational awareness and early detection of ignitions in elevated fire risk areas near company infrastructure. The public will also have access to the live feeds from any of the cameras.
“We are continuing to take action to address the growing risks from wildfires across our service territory using a variety of technologies and methods,” said Jim Alberts, Hawaiian Electric senior vice president and chief operations officer. “Installing publicly viewable AI-assisted video cameras in elevated fire risk areas will enable the company, fire agencies, and emergency operations centers the ability to identify potential wildfires early and respond quickly.”
Hawaiian Electric signed a five-year contract with California-based ALERTWest. ALERTWest’s software platform, which is widely used in fire-prone areas through the Western U.S., is assisted by AI to detect smoke and other early indications of fire in real-time. ALERTWest has extensive experience working with utility companies, including partnerships, with Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), as well as the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). The AI Solution was recognized as one of TIME magazine’s best inventions of 2023.
The public will be able to access the live feeds from any of the cameras on the ALERTWest website at https://alertwest.live/. Half of the video camera stations are expected to be operational by September 2024, with the remainder to be installed in the first half of 2025.