Pilot program uses infrared and ultraviolet technology

– Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) is using drones equipped with infrared and ultraviolet technology to inspect power lines and identify potential problems before outages occur.

The utility is conducting the pilot program on the Central Coast for a third year. The drones can inspect 3 to 5 miles of utility poles and power lines each day.

The technology helps inspectors identify hot spots that can indicate damage not visible to the naked eye. Drones also give inspectors a bird’s-eye view of damage, wear, and other potential problems that crews may not see from the ground or while climbing a utility pole.

The utility uses uncrewed aircraft as one of several tools intended to prevent wildfires. Crews conduct the inspections throughout the year, with inspections becoming more critical during the summer months.

The drones and infrared cameras examine only the utility’s electrical equipment, including pole tops, conductors, and insulators. The cameras do not examine nearby homes, yards, or people, according to the utility.

Drone flights take place only during daylight hours and favorable weather conditions.

Utility drone pilots and contractors wear high-visibility safety vests and hard hats and carry identification credentials. The utility asks anyone who wants to approach a pilot near a power line to wait until the drone lands safely.