Power Line Management During a Pandemic
Power line management is obviously an important facet of electric utility operations, and this has certainly not gotten any easier during the coronavirus outbreak. Between social distancing protocols, a reduced workforce, and the stormy weather associated with the summer season, utility companies clearly have their work cut out for them.
The New Norm Around Power Line Management
The good news is that technology has served to modernize power line management techniques. For one, the inspection process is no longer required to be completely manual. For example, drones and helicopter cameras can be deployed to automate the process. And as an added bonus, these devices provide overhead views of wires that are not possible from the ground level.
Some utilities are also utilizing sensors to collect power line data. This data, along with data from aerial systems, can then be stored on a cloud-based server and analyzed by inspection personnel. Best of all, these “virtual inspections” can be done from anywhere, including people working from home.
With all of that being said, it is important to keep in mind that some physical / manual inspections will always be necessary, but the data provided by drones and sensors can provide advance-warning of any potential problem areas, greatly augmenting the planning process. It also helps provide a holistic, system-wide view of the infrastructure, boosting the ability to make informed, intelligent decisions.
Aside from the inspection process, other power line management tasks, like vegetation management and replacing poles, remain necessary and important. But unlike infrastructure inspections, these tasks are, by necessity, mostly manual in nature, and have been slowed by the outbreak. Other than optimizing safety protocols and mandating more impactful PPE and social distancing protocols, these tasks will likely remain a little behind schedule until the virus is under control.
Still, the enhanced ability for utilities to automate line inspections offers a net gain in terms of efficiency, and should substantially improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of power line management processes over time.
