Eversource to Begin Aerial Inspections in Waterford

BERLIN, CT – Eversource is conducting aerial inspections of its high-voltage electric equipment and lines in Connecticut.

This annual inspection is an important part of the company’s ongoing commitment to providing reliable energy to customers. The work involves the use of a helicopter flying low over transmission lines to detect any potential equipment issues before system reliability is impacted.

“The helicopter inspections of our transmission lines are a crucial and effective part of our commitment to reducing the frequency and duration of power outages,” Vice President of Electric Field Operations at Eversource in Connecticut Steve Gilkey said in a release. “Over a million customers in Connecticut depend on us for their electric service and that’s why we’re always working proactively to keep the system operating safely and reliably.”

Weather-permitting, the aerial inspections will continue through Dec. 15. They will take place from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

The region’s transmission system is the backbone of the electric grid. Overhead inspections of transmission lines and equipment – often located upwards of 100 feet in the air – help transmission planners detect potential problems in advance, allowing the company to schedule necessary maintenance before reliability issues arise.

The aircrafts are a blue and silver helicopter, tail # N1431W, and a blue & white helicopter, tail # N411DD.

Image via Shutterstock.