Assessing Wildfire Risk on Utility Distribution Feeders: A Data-Driven Approach

February 05, 2026
Reliability & Resiliency - Booth #UL741
Asset Management , Vegetation Management , Reliability and Resilience , Resiliency Knowledge Hub

 

Wildfires pose a growing threat to utility infrastructure, particularly in regions with high vegetation density and extreme weather conditions. This presentation explores a comprehensive approach to assessing wildfire risk on utility distribution feeders by integrating asset history, geographical location, and design standards. Historical performance and maintenance records help identify vulnerabilities that may increase fire risk, while terrain, vegetation proximity, and climate data provide insight into high-risk zones. Additionally, reviewing construction practices, material specifications, and protective measures ensures compliance with modern wildfire mitigation guidelines. By combining these factors into a unified risk assessment framework, utilities can prioritize mitigation strategies, enhance system resilience, and reduce the likelihood of wildfire-related outages. Attendees will gain practical insights into concepts, data sources, and decision-making processes that support proactive wildfire risk management for distribution networks.

Session Sponsored by Ulteig

 

Speakers
Josh Guck
Josh Guck, Technical Manager- Energy Solutions - Ulteig