How APS is using artificial intelligence to fight wildfires - Arizona Silver Belt

APS is deploying AI-powered cameras to detect wildfires earlier across Arizona. Forty-five cameras are currently online, with locations in the Pinals, Buffalo Hill, and Mount Ord northwest of Roosevelt. By year’s end, the network is expected to expand to 71 cameras to triangulate ignition points. Cameras mount on hilltop cell towers to provide a 360-degree view with a radius of more than 10 miles and operate on a primary power source with battery and generator backups. Each unit captures infrared imagery every five seconds, and AI analyzes baselines to flag anomalies. Dispatchers at a vendor-operated monitoring center review flagged images before notifying authorities. About 83 agencies, including forestry services, municipalities, counties, and other public entities, already have access to the feeds. There is discussion of giving other energy companies access as needed to improve wildfire response. PSPS measures may temporarily de-energize lines to reduce fire risk. The system has delivered a return on investment since late-2024, and customers can learn more at APS.com/psps. The elevated Pinals camera provides broad coverage and underpins the network’s wildfire-detection capability.