How PG&E Is Advancing Wildfire Suppression with Autonomous Technology
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, known as PG&E, is leading the way in wildfire prevention through advanced, autonomous technology. As wildfires continue to threaten California, PG&E partners with industry leaders and technology pioneers to protect communities and infrastructure. Their work is redefining wildfire management for the future.
The Need for Wildfire Innovation
The threat of wildfires in California grows each year, fueled by climate change and changing weather patterns. PG&E is committed to tackling this challenge through technology and strategic partnerships. Instead of relying solely on traditional firefighting methods, the company is investing in innovative solutions to enhance response times and reduce the potential for catastrophic fires.
PG&E’s Role in Autonomous Firefighting Demonstrations
In April 2025, PG&E participated in California’s first-ever autonomous wildfire suppression demonstration. The event featured a Sikorsky Black Hawk® helicopter equipped with state-of-the-art autonomy systems. This groundbreaking technology allowed the helicopter to detect, track, and extinguish fires, all controlled remotely via a tablet interface. The demonstration took place in the Silverwood region near the San Bernardino National Forest, bringing together experts from multiple sectors.
PG&E's involvement highlights its dedication to developing safer and more efficient ways to combat wildfires. According to Mark Quinlan, PG&E’s Senior Vice President of Wildfire, Emergency, and Operations, the company has already made significant progress in reducing ignitions but understands the ongoing need for technological advancement. Learn more about this milestone event in Yahoo Finance's coverage of PG&E's participation in the autonomous wildfire suppression demonstration.
How Autonomous Helicopters Enhance Firefighting
The featured Black Hawk helicopter can autonomously perform wildfire suppression with minimal human intervention. It pulls water from dip tanks and extinguishes fires, navigating rugged terrain and responding faster than ground crews. Such technology not only improves fire response but also enhances field crew safety.
More details on the helicopter’s technology can be found in Aerospace Testing International’s report on the autonomous Black Hawk system. By integrating these advanced helicopters into their emergency response efforts, PG&E paves the way for highly efficient firefighting solutions.
Partnering for a Safer California
PG&E collaborates with innovators like Rain, who helped develop the autonomous helicopter technology. Rain participates in an ongoing PG&E research project and is a key competitor in the XPRIZE Wildfire competition. This initiative encourages the development of fully autonomous, rapid-response wildfire detection and suppression tools.
For a look at how this helicopter is engineered for efficiency and safety, check out ABC7 Los Angeles’ coverage of the autonomous firefighting Firehawk helicopter.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Wildfire Suppression
PG&E’s investment in autonomous wildfire suppression is a major step toward safer communities and a more resilient state. The company's continued partnerships and commitment to technological innovation help create faster, smarter, and more effective responses to California’s ongoing wildfire threat.
With advancements like autonomous helicopters, PG&E is building a safer future—protecting lives, property, and the environment for generations to come.