This project will enable future wildfire prevention algorithms by adding data to the Grid Event Signature Library that is specifically targeted towards potential wildfire ignition events such as faults, downed conductors, arcing, and conductor slap.
Office of NEPA Policy and Compliance
April 30, 2026
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This project will enable future wildfire prevention algorithms by adding data to the Grid Event Signature Library that is specifically targeted towards potential wildfire ignition events such as faults, downed conductors, arcing, and conductor slap. The primary role of Idaho National Laboratory (INL) in the project is to conduct controlled, full-scale electrical fault testing at its Critical Infrastructure Test Range Complex (CITRC). INL will aid in expertise by generating and collecting the datapoints needed for the fault library. INL will also contribute to back labeling of existing faults using AI tools. The goal of this project at INL is to gather and publish wildfire-relevant fault signatures from intentionally initiated faults, which includes drone-drops of birds, branches, and other short length conductors onto live electrical lines.
The changes covered in this revision are the following:
- The test location is now along/over the pole line road directly off of Test Pad B and shown in Figure 1.
- The pole line road is overgrown, but should not require maintenance to access/drive. If mandated by the fire department, mowing of the center strip may be necessary.
- Power management will be planting a non-load bearing wooden distribution pole with a tie to the existing ground grid.