New Approach Dramatically Cuts Time and Costs

Georgia Power recently announced that they have chosen a new method for inspecting transmission lines. This development not only reduces operational time by an average of 40%, but also has the potential to provide the company nearly 60% in cost savings.

Georgia Power is the forefront subsidiary of Southern Company, which is one of the largest electricity generators in the nation. They own and operate almost 12,000 miles of transmission lines, which provide power to 2.7 million customers across the state. With ownership of these lines, which are 80-100 miles long and 100-350 feet tall, comes the responsibility of constant maintenance and inspections. This is necessary in finding and fixing damage from lightning strikes, vegetation and debris, erosion, and bird’s good-luck charms.

Previously, Georgia Power used custom bucket trucks and helicopter rigs to inspect the lines. However, this method was both time consuming and money draining. Following the company’s mission to consistently make their operations smarter and more resilient, they have decided to employ unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

“As a former lineworker who has spent countless hours in bucket trucks inspecting transmission lines, the use of drones is a gamechanger,” said Nick Howell, a certified drone operator for Georgia Power. “I’m glad our company has made the investment in the technology, and in our people.”

The use of UAS preserves safety, cost savings, accuracy, and time efficiency. The company calculated that their drone pilots can inspect 14 miles of transmission lines per day, allowing them to examine over 15,000 structures within the year. The pilots can remain a safe distance from the high voltage lines while capturing high quality imagery of the equipment. This allows them to pinpoint irregularities before they become an issue.

Fran Forehand, senior vice president of Transmission for Georgia Power states: “We are always looking to improve grid resiliency and operational efficiencies, which is why we implemented transmission line drone inspections”

Georgia Power drones are operated by FAA licensed pilots with specialized training.

FMI: www.georgiapower.com