New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) are inspecting thousands of miles of transmission lines throughout their service areas through the end of 2024. The process, known as Comprehensive Visual Inspection (CVI), uses drones with high-resolution cameras to capture detailed images of electrical infrastructure.
“Using drones to gather aerial data is highly effective,” said Paul Iannuzzelli, manager of Networks Standardization and Maintenance for NYSEG and RG&E. “Drones can inspect electrical infrastructure that’s hard to access, such as high-voltage power lines or remote locations, without the need for scaffolding or other equipment. The process is also faster and safer than traditional inspection methods.”
The inspection is critical for maintaining the safety and reliability of the electrical grid and is designed to identify issues that may not be visible from the ground, such as damage, wear, or potential hazards. With CVI, the Companies check for physical damage, corrosion, or other signs of deterioration that could lead to failures or outages. By identifying and addressing potential issues before they lead to failures, NYSEG and RG&E can ensure the consistent delivery of electricity to homes and businesses.
Once data is collected, NYSEG and RG&E look for several factors that may require repairs, including vegetation encroachment that could interfere with power lines, physical damage to poles, lines, or transformers, and other causes that could lead to outages or safety hazards. The Companies have been performing inspections using drones since 2021. The process has significantly enhanced their ability to conduct thorough and efficient evaluations of their infrastructure, helping improve overall reliability.
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