An energy giant has opened a pioneering new support room in Lanarkshire.
Bosses at SP Energy Networks say the room is so innovative that it can spot potential faults on the electricity network before they happen.
The LV (Low Voltage) Support Room has been set up at the power network provider’s Cambuslang depot and uses advanced monitoring technology to provide real-time information on supplies across its operating area.
Data produced by smart meters and electricity substations highlight where a potential fault may occur on the electricity network, helping engineers find exact locations where repairs are required, sometimes before power drops and customers are even aware of an issue.
Previously, engineers have relied on customers identifying problems and calling the 105 hotline to report an outage and often it could mean digging holes in roads to locate the precise location of the fault and carry out a repair.
It believed the innovative set-up can prevent unnecessary power cuts and helping keep the lights on for homes and businesses all year round, while the company hopes it will become a 24/7 operation in the coming years.
Craig Arthur, from SP Energy Networks, told Lanarkshire Live : "We’re continuously innovating to provide our customers with the best service possible while leading the way towards a greener, electric future.
"Faults are an unavoidable part of any energy network and our LV Support Room is helping to revolutionise the way we spot and handle problems when they happen.
"It improves network performance, reduces network interruptions and reduces time off supply for our customers.
"And as more customers apply to connect electric vehicles and heat pumps, the cumulative demand on the electricity network increases significantly and can lead to new or larger infrastructure being required to service that demand.
"The LV Support Room means we now have a full picture of that demand and can use the data gathered to better inform investment decisions for the LV network – both in terms of where the investment is needed and crucially, when.
"It’s allowing us to maximise our capacity for low carbon technologies, which will help us support the UK to achieve its Net Zero ambitions."
The new room also supports future plans for the power network by providing a comprehensive picture of the potential impacts the predicted increase in electricity demand will bring as more and more people make the move to electric vehicles and heat pumps.
The LV Support Room was established as a permanent part of SP Energy Networks’ operations following a trial in Cambuslang that identified 30 ‘pre-faulting’ circuits.