Enhanced Power Line Safety Setting (EPSS) causes power to go out faster when an issue is identified. These devices will operate to prevent potential arcs and sparks that could result in fire ignitions. When a line with the Enhanced Power Line Safety Setting trips or shuts off service, we are required to patrol the entire de-energized line before restoring power.
No reclosing is done on these devices, which means you will not expect lights to turn on momentarily 5-25 seconds later. This ensures that PG&E is not re-energizing a line that could potentially be hazardous.
This enhanced safety measure is due to the unprecedented drought and extremely dry conditions. It will be used when wildfire potential is the greatest, usually in late summer and fall.
Terms also used to refer to Enhanced Power Line Safety Settings are Fast Trip, Fast Trip Settings, and Hot Line Tags.
For more information visit our Enhanced Power Line Safety Settings page.
For an overview of how Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings work and how you will be notified of restoration efforts, visit Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings - YouTube