Case Study: PG&E achieves nearly 20% CMI reduction with Sentient Energy line sensors

Quantifying Saidi Reduction & Other Benefits of Line Sensors

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) faced the challenge of improving the reliability of its extensive and aging electrical grid while supporting growing solar and electric vehicle adoption. To address this, the utility sought a modern solution to replace its mechanical fault circuit indicators and launched an industry-leading project to test line sensor technology. PG&E evaluated products from Sentient Energy, among other vendors, to quantify potential SAIDI savings and assess advanced grid monitoring capabilities.

Sentient Energy’s MM3 line sensors were deployed by PG&E in a comprehensive field test. The sensors provided real-time fault location and load data, which were integrated into the utility’s operational and diagnostic centers. The solution delivered a compelling business case, with the trials showing a potential reduction in Customer Minutes Interrupted (CMI) of nearly 20%. This proven impact gave PG&E the confidence to include a large-scale roll-out of Sentient Energy's sensors in its General Rate Case.

PG&E