Sense launches edge AI fault detection
New software embedded in smart meters detects downed lines, arcing, and equipment issues in real time to boost safety and prevent wildfires.
Image for illustrative purposes
Sense, a company dealing in grid edge intelligence, has unveiled a new edge-powered Fault Detection Solution built directly into modern smart meters. The system provides utilities with real-time visibility of faults across the distribution grid, including service and secondary lines to homes — the areas where most outages occur but have historically been hard to monitor.
In the US, over 90 % of power outages happen on the distribution grid, yet most detection technologies focus upstream on transmission or substations. Sense uses its Waveform AI™ technology to identify arcing, downed lines, and equipment degradation instantly, helping utilities reduce wildfire risk, protect lineworkers, and restore power faster.
“Utilities need immediate insight into distribution grid faults,” said Sense CEO Mike Phillips. “By moving intelligence to the edge, operators can act as soon as problems occur – all without installing extra hardware or field sensors.”
Designed for AMI 2.0 smart meters, the software maximises existing meter deployments, eliminating the need for additional pole-top sensors or radio-based systems. Utilities can pinpoint faults faster, cut outage durations, reduce truck rolls, and prioritise maintenance based on actual equipment conditions. Early detection also improves lineworker safety, as arcing events are highly dangerous in the field.
Pilot programmes have already shown the solution’s value, spotting emerging faults caused by vegetation issues and uncovering previously hidden infrastructure problems. The launch follows Sense’s Load Visibility Solution from late 2025, further expanding the company’s grid edge offerings.
Source: Sense
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