Early streamer emission lightning protection systems: An overview

Early streamer emission (ESE) lightning protection systems are a relatively new approach to the perennial problem of lightning damage, and these systems may hold promise for a more effective protection against lightning. However, the scientific and technical basis for this improved performance is far from certain and the efficacy of these technologies remains open to question. In this paper we examine the physical basis for ESE devices and identify areas of controversy and gaps in our knowledge of lightning and lightning protection that need to be considered in assessing ESE devices and in their future development.