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Xcel Energy is taking steps to enhance wildfire detection by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its monitoring systems, with plans to bring this technology to New Mexico in the near future. Last week, the electric utility announced its intention to deploy an advanced fire detection camera system in 11 counties across Texas. These AI-powered cameras are designed to detect smoke quickly when a fire begins, alerting human analysts, identifying the fire’s location, and notifying a 911 call center for a swift response.
Currently, Xcel has already implemented this technology in Colorado and aims to expand it to eastern New Mexico within the next five years. “We are collaborating with local communities, first responders, and evaluating the best locations for these cameras,” said Adrian Rodriguez, President of Xcel Energy New Mexico-Texas.
This initiative follows the tragic Smokehouse Creek Fire, which earlier this year devastated over a million acres and resulted in two fatalities in the Texas panhandle and Oklahoma. Xcel Energy is facing lawsuits related to the fire, making the timely introduction of this AI-based technology even more significant.
