South Australia's electricity distributor is "exasperated" by the number of farmers hitting powerlines and electricity poles while sowing crops, with 13 incidents recorded this season already.
It is a significant increase on previous years with just three and four cases recorded at the same time in 2021 and 2020 respectively.
SA Power Networks has warned that such incidents could be deadly — and said technology may be a factor.
"The number and type of incidents occurring this year is very disturbing," spokesperson Paul Roberts said.
"People would be surprised by the incidents that occur.
"In broad daylight a tractor runs straight up the middle of a Stobie pole. Other times a pole is hit during a turning manoeuvre."
Mr Roberts said the use of GPS steering technology in tractors is likely to blame for some of the crashes.
"There may have been some change to the configuration of powerlines on the property and, with farm machinery getting taller and wider, everyone needs to know powerline clearances before undertaking work.
"Powerlines also can be difficult to see, especially in dusty conditions, so confirming their location before you start work, could avoid serious injury or even save a life."
SA Power Networks has rolled out advertising in regional communities to raise awareness of the issue.
