Burying Power Lines vs. Preventing Wildfires: Debunking the Myth

There is a growing belief in the public sphere that burying power lines is the key to preventing catastrophic wildfires. However, several factors make this approach impractical and potentially counterproductive.

Why Burial Isn't the Solution

Many people argue that burying power lines is a straightforward solution to prevent electrical grid-related wildfire risks. However, this argument is often based on oversimplified assumptions and fails to consider the complexities and limitations of infrastructure management.

Challenges in Maintenance and Troubleshooting

One of the primary arguments against burying power lines is the difficulty in identifying and addressing issues underground. As my husband pointed out, it can take weeks to pinpoint the exact location of a fault in buried lines. This extended period of potential outage is a significant concern for both utilities and consumers. Moreover, the cost of burying lines is substantially higher, potentially quadrupling the cost per mile compared to above-ground alternatives. These additional costs can impact the overall budget and resources available for other critical utilities and infrastructure maintenance tasks.

Risk of Underground Fires

While the primary concern with above-ground lines is visible and easily managed electrical discharges, underground lines present a different set of fire risks. High voltage transmission lines, such as those carrying the surge of energy that can ignite fires, can still pose a significant risk even underground. Faults in buried lines can generate intense heat, potentially creating conditions conducive to ignition. As I have personally witnessed, improper grounding or failure to insulation can lead to arcing and fire risks, even when a line is buried.

Wildfires and Their Causes

It is crucial to recognize that the majority of wildfires are not caused by electrical grid issues. The statistics are clear: according to the US Forest Service, only a small percentage of wildfires are attributed to manmade causes, with an even smaller proportion linked to utility-related issues. The vast majority of wildfires are naturally ignited or the result of human accidents. Lightning strikes, for instance, are a primary cause of wildfires, accounting for approximately 40% of all wildfires in the United States.

Preventive Measures and Communication

Utility companies and government agencies have recognized the need to focus on proactive maintenance and preventive measures to reduce the risk of electrical grid-related fires. Enhanced inspections, regular maintenance, and advanced monitoring technologies are being deployed to minimize potential hazards. Clear communication with the public and the business community is also essential to keep everyone informed about the measures being taken to ensure safe and reliable power delivery.

Conclusion

Burying power lines is not the silver bullet many advocates believe it to be. The challenges in maintenance, the risk of underground fires, and the relatively small contribution of electrical grid issues to wildfire incidence make this approach impractical and potentially harmful in certain circumstances. A multifaceted approach that emphasizes proactive maintenance, advanced technology, and robust communication is a more effective way to mitigate the risks associated with both electrical grid infrastructure and wildfire hazards.