AEP Texas is using artificial intelligence and innovative technology to help protect customers and communities from the threat to wildfire. Pano AI cameras use a powerful lens to capture image and video at a distance up to ten miles. When it detects smoke or ignition, it notifies crews which makes our response faster, more efficient and more effective.

As part of AEP Texas’ Resiliency and Wildfire Mitigation Plans, the company is employing the cameras in high-risk pockets of its west Texas service territory. As of early October, 16 Pano AI cameras have been installed across the service territory. By February 2027, AEP Texas plans to have a total of 56 cameras installed.

The cameras use a powerful camera and technology to detect heat, smoke or ignition and employ artificial intelligence software to send notifications to AEP Texas within an estimated ten minutes of detection. Although the cameras do not prevent wildfires from happening, Wildfire Mitigation and Response Lead Floyd Watkins said they provide situational awareness for AEP Texas that can be shared with external resources like first responders.

“These systems are designed to help identify smoke or fire signatures earlier, provide visual confirmation, improve location awareness, and support a faster, more informed response,” said Watkins. “The real value is not just detection — it is reducing the time between a potential ignition and actionable awareness.”

The camera’s software can detect a fire up to ten miles away. Each camera is installed on an approximately 200-foot-tall communications tower with a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. When one camera detects heat or smoke, the team receives a notification via email or text message.

Since the official launch earlier this year, Watkins said there has not been a major fire which has required an AEP Texas response - but that does not mean the company is letting its guard down.

“The threat is real, and while it can peak seasonally, it is not something we can afford to treat as seasonal only,” he said. “In west Texas, the risk can build quickly when wind, fuels, and weather line up.”

For more information about AEP Texas’ Resiliency and Wildfire Mitigation Plans, visit aeptexas.com/wildfires.