​PG&E ​Using Drones, Helicopters To Inspect Equipment In Marin

MARIN COUNTY, CA — Pacific Gas and Electric Company is using drones and helicopters to inspect electric transmission lines for wildfire risks in Marin County.

PG&E made automated phone calls or sent postcards to customers located along several transmission lines throughout the county.

Inspectors will be looking at the various electrical components on the lines and documenting findings with high-resolution images, which will be reviewed to identify the highest-priority areas for repairs and other work.

"All the highest-priority conditions found through inspections will be promptly repaired or made safe," the company said in a news release. "Repairs for all other conditions are scheduled for completion as part of our routine work execution plan."

The flights will take place from 7 a.m. through 6 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays over the next several weeks, according to the utility.

PG&E plans to inspect more than 15,000 miles of electric lines in 2020.

"That includes all lines in Tier 3 areas and one-third of all lines in Tier 2 areas," the company said. "We are also planning to inspect additional line miles in non-high fire-threat areas."

The inspections will take place through the end of the year, according to the utility.