Overloaded surge arresters can be a source of wildfires
As warm seasons extend and conditions become drier, electrical infrastructure is increasingly exposed to wildfire-related challenges. The Spark Prevention Unit (SPU) continuously monitors the current and thermal load of medium voltage surge arresters. In the event of a thermal overload, it interrupts the current flow and disconnects the surge arrester, helping to protect communities, critical infrastructure in wildfire‑prone areas.
Reduce wildfire ignition risk at the source
- Acts instantly under overload: SPU automatically disconnects medium voltage surge arresters during overload, effectively eliminating arcing and the ejection of hot particles.
- Targeted protection: SPU prevents wildfire ignition risk in medium voltage surge arresters.
- Result: Enables safer grid operation in wildfire-prone environments.
Designed for the U.S. regulatory landscape
and trusted by leading U.S. market players
Engineered to support compliance with U.S. wildfire mitigation requirements, including alignment with CalFire-related considerations, supporting readiness for U.S. utility and safety requirements.
Reliable performance under extreme conditions
Validated operation up to 4,000 meters
above sea level conditions.
Facilitates easy and planned maintenance
SPU provides a visible red indicator located on the ground lead, which signals when the SPU has been triggered due to overload.
Proven at scale
More than 600,000 SPUs installed
Across wildfire-prone regions including California and Southern Australia.
Reducing wildfire risks caused by electrical networks
How the Spark Prevention Unit strengthens grid resilience
