Infrared thermography has long been a cornerstone of electrical panel maintenance, traditionally performed through periodic, time-based inspections using handheld infrared cameras. This method has been widely adopted as a best practice due to its ability to detect early signs of failure, mitigate catastrophic risks, and support the longevity of electrical infrastructure.  However, recent regulatory changes have elevated the role of infrared inspections from recommended practice to mandatory standard. Specifically, the

This article discusses best practices for managing inspection data in electrical utilities, emphasizing the importance of standardized collection, metadata tagging, and compliance with IEEE 1808-2024. It highlights the value of integrating data from multiple sensors, including RGB, thermal, and ultraviolet imaging, with geographic and asset information, and applying structured, industry-based diagnostics. These practices support traceable condition assessments, consistent severity scoring, and risk-informed maintenance planning. THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE OF GRID INSPECTIONS

Low-voltage protection is undergoing rapid evolution. For decades, microprocessor-based protective relays have been the gold standard for medium- and high-voltage power systems, offering highly configurable protection, metering, and communication capabilities. Meanwhile, circuit breaker trip unit technology remained relatively static for many years, remaining confined to the breaker frame and focused primarily on basic overcurrent functions. This is no longer the case. The latest generations of trip units have evolved into