What Are Zombie Power Lines?
“Zombie” power lines are electrical lines that have been taken out of service but remain physically in place. Over time, these dormant lines can deteriorate, leading to potential hazards. One significant risk is electromagnetic induction, where nearby active lines induce a current in these inactive lines, potentially causing fires.
The Eaton Fire: A Case Study
On January 7, 2025, the Eaton Fire erupted in Eaton Canyon, rapidly spreading due to strong Santa Ana winds. The fire scorched over 14,000 acres and led to mass evacuations. Investigations have zeroed in on a decommissioned power line, inactive since 1971, as a possible cause. Engineers from Southern California Edison (SCE) suspect that electromagnetic induction from active high-voltage lines may have energized this idle line, leading to the fire’s ignition.
Legal and Financial Repercussions
The potential role of the “zombie” power line in the Eaton Fire has significant legal implications. SCE faces numerous lawsuits alleging negligence in maintaining and decommissioning their equipment. Under California’s doctrine of inverse condemnation, utilities can be held liable for damages if their equipment is found to have caused a fire, regardless of fault. This legal framework means that SCE could be responsible for billions in damages, even if they adhered to existing regulations.
The Broader Implications
The Eaton Fire underscores a pressing issue: the potential dangers posed by outdated infrastructure. As our electrical grids age, the presence of decommissioned yet physically intact lines becomes more common. These lines, if not properly maintained or removed, can become ignition sources under certain conditions. This incident serves as a wake-up call for utilities nationwide to assess and address the risks associated with such infrastructure.
Moving Forward
To mitigate the risks associated with “zombie” power lines, several steps should be considered:
- Comprehensive Audits: Utilities must conduct thorough assessments to identify and evaluate the condition of inactive lines within their networks.
- Proactive Decommissioning: Rather than leaving inactive lines in place, utilities should prioritize their safe removal to eliminate potential hazards.
- Regulatory Oversight: Enhanced regulations may be necessary to ensure utilities are held accountable for maintaining or removing decommissioned infrastructure.
- Public Awareness: Communities should be informed about the presence of such lines and the associated risks, fostering collaboration between utilities and the public.
The tragedy of the Eaton Fire highlights the critical need for vigilance in infrastructure management. Addressing the challenges posed by “zombie” power lines is not just a matter of regulatory compliance but a crucial step in safeguarding lives and property.
