New tech to reduce Vic bushfire risk

Victorian electricity companies will be required to install new technology that halves the risk of bushfires caused by powerline faults.

The Rapid Earth Fault Current Limiter technology, developed in response to the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission, stops an electrical current within milliseconds of a powerline coming into contact with the ground or trees.

Under new state regulations announced on Monday, power companies in high bushfire risk areas will be required to install the technology, and to insulate power cables or bury them underground.