Eversource Starts Using Drones to Inspect Power Lines

TOLLAND, CT — Citing the need to "leverage innovative technologies," Eversource Energy is now using drones to "more efficiently" inspect electric lines throughout Connecticut.

The aerial devices provide the energy company with a close look at high-voltage infrastructure, including those spanning remote, hard-to-reach areas, officials said.

“Drone technology offers a safe, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly way to perform required inspections of electrical lines, structures and equipment,” Eversource President of Regional Electric Operations Craig Hallstrom said. “This high-tech solution provides a critical, bird’s-eye view, enabling us to identify any potential issues in an effort to ensure our customers have the energy they need for every moment of their lives.”

The use of drones is limited to inspections of Eversource equipment by certified operators, without "compromising the privacy of nearby property owners," Eversource officials said.

Using drones will decrease the need for periodic inspections by low-flying helicopters, reduce "the use of fossil fuels" and "lower the costs associated with annual inspections which are paid for by customers," officials said.

Drone inspections will also reduce the need for vehicle access to inspect equipment in environmentally sensitive areas, officials said.

In addition to its routine annual inspections, Eversource plans to also use drones to assess damage to the electric system in the wake of major storms. During an emergency, the company can launch a camera-equipped drone to collect "accurate and timely power line damage information" and immediately transfer data to "restoration planners" and communicate more "precise restoration information" to customers.

Eversource transmits and delivers electricity to 1.2 million customers in 149 cities and towns, provides natural gas to 232,000 customers in 73 communities, and supplies water to approximately 197,000 customers in 51 communities across Connecticut.

Photo Credit: Eversource

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