Impact of a new lightning detection and location system in South Africa

Lightning is a major contributor towards electrical power disruptions. For many years Eskom has had to improvise to ensure the most effective mitigation methods and applications to address the impact of lightning on the delivery of power within its operational borders. An Eskom-owned lightning detection system has reached the end of its life and can no longer meet Eskom´s requirements. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) are implementing a new lightning location system (LLS) which will service industry throughout Southern Africa. This paper covers the proposed national lightning location system, its application in Eskom and the future benefits of such information as it applies to power system security, industry protection against disruptions and the management of industry in high lightning risk zones