- Company: Lake Region Electric Cooperative
- Location: Pelican Rapids, Minnesota
- Solution: AiDASH Intelligent Vegetation Management System (IVMS)
About the Lake Region Electric Cooperative:
Lake Region Electric Cooperative (LREC) is a member-owned, member-controlled electric utility serving more than 28,000 member-consumers with 30 substations that power approximately 4,046 miles of overhead lines located in Pelican Rapids, Minnesota.
The Problem: Incomplete data and an ad hoc approach.
Two years ago, LREC leadership approached Abe Nebgen, Utility Arborist, with a critical question: “What would it take to fully optimize our vegetation management program?” Like many electric cooperatives, Abe is operating a small team with very limited resources.
Abe realized there was a big opportunity to bring in a technology solution to meet this challenge . Aware that satellite imaging was being used by other utilities to capture, analyze, and provide real insight, he brought in AiDASH Intelligent Vegetation Management System™ (IVMS) to support his optimization and modernization efforts. For the first time, Abe could see his network in a way he hadn’t been able to without IVMS.
Challenges included:
- Incomplete data: In-house data was sometimes lacking, making it difficult to quantify the work across the system.
- Ad hoc system management: The system had not recently been fully analyzed or “dug out,” leading to reactive rather than proactive maintenance.
- Need for a more systematic approach: LREC was looking for insightful ways to implement a more effective 4-year cycle, dividing the system into quarters to better manage resources and ensure consistent coverage.
The Solution: Proactive, not reactive.
The new AiDASH-enabled approach included:
- Comprehensive system management with a new visual layer: Moving from a reactive to a proactive stance, Abe and LREC emphasized always having an inventory of the system – using satellite imaging and AI to make it possible.
- Credibility and transparency: IVMS provided a data-driven backstop that the entire organization could use as a source of truth to limit subjectivity and make informed decisions about where to focus and how to be as efficient as possible.
Impact: Quality, efficiency, and credibility.
Key impacts included:
- Improved data quality: The system inventory provided clear and actionable data, making it easier to allocate resources effectively.
- Operational efficiency: With a clearer understanding of problem areas and a systematic approach to maintenance, the company reduced the risk of outages and improved overall system reliability.
- Increased credibility: The data-driven approach gave the team the credibility they needed to advocate for necessary budget increases and systemic changes.
Using satellite-first with AI-based technology, LREC has laid a foundation for a more resilient and reliable network through data-driven vegetation management. With the support of technology partners and a commitment to improvement, LREC is well-positioned to meet future challenges and continue providing reliable service to its customers.
About AiDASH
AiDASH is making critical infrastructure industries climate-resilient and secure. Using our satellite-first platform for grid inspection and monitoring, our AI applications enable electric and gas utilities and landowners to transform how they manage and maintain assets. Our customers deliver ROI in their first year of deployment with reduced costs, improved reliability, and advancements in sustainability goals. AiDASH exists to safeguard critical infrastructure and secure the future of humanAIty™.
Learn more at www.aidash.com.
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