Power network at the center of wildfire probes

Wildfires in Greece this year have increasingly drawn attention to the role of the national power transmission network, with preliminary investigations indicating that nearly three-quarters of the affected land area has been linked to electrical infrastructure. The findings highlight concerns over the aging and poorly maintained grid, which has come under scrutiny following major blazes in regions including Attica, Crete, and Arta in western Greece. According to reports, the Greek power grid operator, DEDDIE, claims that only 1% of the forest fires recorded in 2025 were caused by the electricity network, a figure significantly lower than the 3% observed in the United States. However, independent assessments suggest otherwise, pointing to a much higher correlation between power line failures and the spread of wildfires. A seasoned technician described the situation as akin to neglecting regular vehicle maintenance, while the system might continue functioning, the lack of upkeep poses unknown risks to public safety. Greece's power network spans an extensive 253,865 kilometers, enough to encircle the planet more than six times. It connects 167,316 medium and low voltage substations, serving 7.67 million users. Additionally, the integration of renewable energy sources has added complexity to the system, with over 9.1 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity now connected to the grid. Managing such a vast and diverse network presents unique challenges, particularly given its age and the variety of materials used during its development over several decades. A critical concern lies in the incomplete mapping of the network's components. Some utility poles, cables, transformers, and substations remain unidentified in terms of their exact locations, ages, types, and conditions. This lack of clarity complicates efforts to prioritize inspections and replacements, especially in emergencies. Accurate geographic data would enable quicker isolation of affected sections and faster coordination with firefighting teams. Vegetation management around power lines and substations has also emerged as a key issue. While DEDDIE states it conducts routine pruning and cleaning as part of its fire prevention strategy, experts argue that the process lacks clear priorities and oversight. Questions remain about how pruning sites are selected, who ensures the quality of the work, and how the resulting debris is handled. Dry plant matter left near power lines could act as kindling, increasing the risk of fire outbreaks. Modern technology offers potential solutions, such as using drones, sensors, and real-time data transmission to monitor vegetation growth and allow proactive intervention. In certain instances, robotic systems are being employed in renewable energy parks to perform cutting tasks efficiently. Furthermore, research suggests that the debris generated from these operations could be repurposed, potentially generating revenue through processes like biochar production. Another layer of complexity involves the outsourcing of inspection work to private firms, many of which may lack the specialized knowledge needed to assess damage and understand the behavior of materials within the power network. Despite legal mandates requiring annual inspections from October to May, ensuring thorough coverage remains challenging. Technicians familiar with DEDDIE’s operations emphasize the need for improved oversight and collaboration among stakeholders to address these issues effectively.