Introduction
Over the past few decades, extreme weather events have become more severe and frequent. This phenomenon has left a lasting impact on communities worldwide, causing widespread destruction and disruption to daily life. In this article, we will explore how Neara, an innovative startup, is using AI and machine learning to revolutionize the way utilities prepare for and respond to extreme weather events.
The Impact of Extreme Weather Events
Extreme weather events such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods have become increasingly common in recent years. These events not only cause significant damage to infrastructure but also pose a threat to human life and safety. According to a report by the United Nations, climate-related disasters have increased by 15% since 2010, resulting in over $1 trillion in economic losses.
The Challenge of Predicting Extreme Weather Events
Predicting extreme weather events is a complex task that requires advanced technologies and expertise. Utilities face significant challenges in predicting when and where these events will occur, making it difficult to prepare for them. Traditional methods rely on historical data and manual analysis, which are often inaccurate and time-consuming.
Neara’s AI-Powered Solution
Neara has developed an innovative solution that uses AI and machine learning to predict extreme weather events and help utilities prepare for them. The company’s technology combines multiple data sources, including satellite imagery, weather forecasts, and historical data, to create a comprehensive model of the utility network.
How Neara Works
Neara’s platform works as follows:
- Data Collection: Neara collects and integrates multiple data sources, including satellite imagery, weather forecasts, and historical data.
- Modeling: The company uses AI and machine learning algorithms to create a comprehensive model of the utility network.
- Prediction: Neara’s platform predicts extreme weather events, such as floods or wildfires, based on the model and historical data.
Case Studies: Neara in Action
Neara has successfully implemented its technology with several utilities worldwide, including Essential Energy in Australia. Here are two case studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of Neara’s solution:
Essential Energy
In 2022, Essential Energy, a utility company in New South Wales, Australia, partnered with Neara to develop a digital network model. The goal was to assess each asset in the network and predict its likelihood of failure during extreme weather events.
Neara’s platform helped Essential Energy complete a report in 15 minutes that analyzed 21,000 power line spans within the flood area. This process would have taken months using traditional methods. As a result, Essential Energy was able to re-energize power lines within five days, compared to the three-weeks it originally anticipated.
SA Power Networks
After the 2022-2023 River Murray flooding crisis, SA Power Networks in Australia partnered with Neara to perform digital flood impact modeling. The company captured lidar data from the Murray River region and used Neara’s platform to analyze how much of its network was damaged and how much risk remained.
Neara’s modeling enabled SA Power Networks to complete a report in 15 minutes that analyzed 21,000 power line spans within the flood area. This process would have taken months using traditional methods. As a result, SA Power Networks was able to re-energize power lines within five days, compared to the three-weeks it originally anticipated.
Conclusion
Extreme weather events pose a significant threat to utilities worldwide. Neara’s AI-powered solution has revolutionized the way these companies prepare for and respond to these events. By combining multiple data sources and using machine learning algorithms, Neara’s platform provides accurate predictions of extreme weather events, enabling utilities to take proactive measures to protect their infrastructure and communities.
Future Developments
Neara is currently working on several new features that will further enhance its technology. These include:
- Increased Data Sources: Neara plans to increase the number of data sources that can be used for modeling, with a focus on image recognition and photogrammetry.
- Improved Risk Analysis: The company aims to help utilities get more value out of their existing live and historical data.
By continuing to innovate and improve its technology, Neara is poised to become a leader in the field of AI-powered utility management, helping companies worldwide prepare for and respond to extreme weather events.