Austin to use AI cameras for early wildfire detection

Austin City Council has approved the use of cameras with artificial intelligence (AI) for wildfire detection and response.

Austin Energy, the city’s public electric utility, will implement technology from Pano AI to provide crews and emergency first responders with up-to-date information on wildfire threats.

Multiple wildfires have hit the Austin area this year, prompting evacuations and disaster declarations.

The partners say the technology collaboration marks the first deployment of an AI-driven early wildfire detection programme in the state. It aims to help protect people, property and infrastructure.

“This is an important step for the safety of our community and the reliability of our electric system,” said Chris Vetromile, Austin Energy Wildfire Program Manager. “Climate change is fuelling extreme temperatures and this programme will save crucial time in responding to wildfires, helping safeguard our community and enhancing our ability to provide uninterrupted electrical service.”

As wildfire threats increase, the use of AI is a growing trend, as seen in places such as Washington, Portland and California.

Early detection

The initiative will begin this autumn with an audit of strategic locations to station 12 ultra-high-definition, 360-degree, mountaintop cameras. The cameras are expected to be operational by summer 2024 and Austin Energy has budgeted US$500,000 annually for a five-year contract.

According to Pano AI: “The fusion of visual data from these state-of-the-art cameras, satellite imagery and artificial intelligence will provide active wildfire detection and real-time situational awareness.”

The system will allow Austin Energy to monitor regions, including electrical grids, in real-time and detect smoke or fire. As soon as an incident is detected, Austin Energy and first responders will be notified and provided with detailed visuals and information such as precise triangulation of ignition sites and identification of structures at immediate risk.

A statement from Pano AI said: “The collaboration highlights the success of the convergence of advanced AI technology and Austin Energy’s proactive commitment to performance, safety, and reliability.

“By pioneering the deployment of an AI-driven early detection programme, this partnership facilitates a new era for wildfire management, showcasing the promise of technology in mitigating the impact of worsening natural disasters and fostering resilience in communities.”

Service area

Austin Energy’s service area extends past city limits into several surrounding counties. Once installed, the Pano AI system will survey nearly all of Travis County, as well as parts of Hays, Bastrop, Williamson and Burnet counties.

The utility said it became aware of AI camera technology through the Texas Public Power Corridor Committee, a group of public utilities along Interstate 35.

Pano AI’s technology is used by governments, fire authorities, utilities, ski resorts, and private landowners. The company operates in seven US states and four states in Australia, and it recently announced an expansion into British Columbia, Canada.