SYNAPS Phase 2 will be organised in two trial stages:

• A ‘basic’ fault location trial for four to six months trialling two sets of our current prototype sensors
• An ‘advanced’ fault location trial for six to eight months trialling ten sets of our next generation sensors.

Through both stages, we’ll be gathering data about how SYNAPS performs in various fault conditions and take the technology to the next level.

Synaps Phase 2 extends our original project, which was the first time that leading-edge AI technology and ‘big data’ have been used to improve network reliability. If the trial is successful and rolled out across the network it could potentially help halve the number of power cuts.

Using machine learning by analysing waveforms from different locations to predict faults is a first on our network. It will help us be proactive like never before, replacing expensive and time-intensive methods with automated technical knowledge.

We will confirm the phase 1 findings and project partner Powerline Technologies will develop next generation sensors to meet the expected outcomes of the project. These are:

• Identify when a fault is developing
• Locate the fault within five metres
• Validate the technology on our network
• Provide a real time interface into our IT systems