NYPA Keeps Power On With Iron Dome Tech

This video presents a fascinating case study of technological innovation and adaptation, showcasing how the Israeli software developers behind the renowned Iron Dome missile defense system have repurposed their expertise for the utility sector. In a groundbreaking collaboration with the New York Power Authority (NYPA), mPrest has implemented its advanced anomaly-detection algorithms, originally designed for defense, to enhance the reliability and efficiency of New York’s power grid. We speak with Alan Ettlinger, Director or Research, Technology Development & Innovation at NYPA, and Andrew Bennett CEO at mPrest Inc. to know more about this project.

The focus of this initiative is on preventing transformer outages, a critical aspect of maintaining uninterrupted power supply. The video explains how the technology developed by mPrest, known for its exceptional performance in missile detection and interception, is now being used to monitor and analyze the health of electrical transformers. By leveraging these sophisticated algorithms, NYPA can proactively identify and address potential issues before they lead to power outages.

This collaboration between mPrest and NYPA is highlighted as a significant step in NYPA’s mission to become a fully digital utility. The video details the process of adapting and integrating mPrest’s software into NYPA’s infrastructure, including the challenges and solutions encountered along the way. It also explores the broader implications of this technology for the utility industry, demonstrating how innovative software solutions can significantly enhance operational efficiency and system reliability.

In addition to technical insights, the video underscores the importance of cross-industry collaboration in driving technological advancement. The partnership between a defense technology firm and a public utility serves as a powerful example of how expertise from different sectors can be synergized to address complex challenges in new and existing industries.

This video is recommended for professionals in the utility and energy sectors, as well as those interested in technology transfer, smart cities and innovation management. It offers valuable insights into how advanced algorithms used in defense can be effectively repurposed for civilian applications, particularly in critical infrastructure. Policy makers, engineers, and technology enthusiasts will find this case study an inspiring example of cross-industry collaboration leading to significant advancements in digital transformation and infrastructure resilience.