Planck Vision Systems: Early Detection Could Prevent $300,000 Losses from Gżira Substation Fire Affecting Over 3,000 Homes

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Planck Vision Systems manufactures thermal imaging solutions for portable inspection and 24/7 monitoring of commercial applications including: Early Fire Detection, Manufacturing, Substations and Tunnels, Electrical Panel/Cabinets, Storage Facilities, Data Centers and Elevated Body Temperature Screening. Our company is headquartered in Santa Barbara CA, the capital of infrared sensing technologies in the United States. 

On August 26, 2024, a fire at an Enemalta substation in Gżira, which began around 1:10 p.m., caused a significant power outage affecting 3,276 customers. The blaze resulted in estimated damages ranging from $200,000 to $300,000. Power was successfully restored to all affected households by 5:30 p.m. Efforts to repair the damage and implement temporary solutions are ongoing to ensure stable electricity supply and prevent future disruptions.

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NEWS

On Monday afternoon, August 26, 2024, a significant fire erupted at an Enemalta substation located in a garage beneath a residential block on Triq Sir Patrick Stuart, Gżira. The fire, reported around 1:10 p.m., caused a power outage that affected approximately 3,276 customers. The fire led to an estimated damage of $200,000 to $300,000, considering the damage to equipment and infrastructure.

The fire, which started in the substation, remains under investigation. Initial reports indicate that the blaze might have been triggered by an electrical malfunction. Enemalta has yet to confirm the exact cause of the fire.

Emergency services, including the Civil Protection Department, were quick to respond. They secured the area to ensure no further risks. Although no injuries were reported, one resident was evacuated as a precaution. The power disruption significantly impacted local businesses and households.

Enemalta’s response included restoring power to the majority of customers within an hour. However, around 309 customers, directly connected to the affected substation, continued to experience outages until 5:30 p.m., when power was fully restored.

In response to the incident, Enemalta emphasized the need for advanced fire detection and prevention systems. Planck Vision Systems’ thermal imaging cameras are recommended as a solution for early fire detection. These cameras provide continuous monitoring and analysis, detecting potential issues before they escalate into significant problems. With fixed mount or pan/tilt cameras, comprehensive surveillance of critical infrastructure like substations can prevent costly disruptions.

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source：timesofmalta.com