Using Smart Meter Data to Strengthen Fault Response

WEL Networks has gone live with a new automated fault detection and response capability that uses real-time smart meter data, data science, engineering analysis and integrated technology platforms to identify probable network faults and immediately notify operational teams.

Fault detection is critical to safety, network availability and quality of supply. Faster identification helps reduce network and asset risk, limit damage and, in some cases, detect faults before customers experience an outage.

Traditional monitoring is effective on higher-voltage parts of the network, but some events are harder to detect, including medium-voltage (MV) line down, open circuits, low-voltage (LV) loss of connection and neutral failures. With more than 99% of WEL customers connected directly to the low-voltage network, improving detection of these faults is an important customer benefit.

In early 2024, WEL reconfigured its smart metering system for real-time voltage and current alerts, allowing smart meters to provide operational insight similar to higher-voltage network monitoring.
Since late 2024, WEL has used smart meter data, engineering analysis and technology applications to support manual detection, detecting and dispatching more than 1,500 faults and events through a business-hours model.

The new automated capability builds on this experience by securely integrating fault detection with WEL's Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS), operational workflows and fault management processes.

It combines smart meter, network and analytical data to identify abnormal conditions. When a fault matches recognised MV or LV signatures, an automated message is sent to System Control (SYSCON) 24/7 to support prioritised response, including fault identification and location prediction.

Developed through collaboration across engineering, operations, IT, customer services and field response, the capability aligns with WEL’s core digital platforms and existing operational processes.

Future enhancements will refine the system’s engineering logic, improve fault categorisation and help prioritise higher-risk events.

This go-live is an important milestone as WEL continues to use digital technology, data analytics and engineering expertise to operate the network efficiently and help ensure customers’ access to electricity remains reliable, affordable and sustainable.

ENDS