Lower Valley Energy (LVE) is notifying members that aerial drone inspections will be conducted along its electric transmission line between Alpine and Hoback over the next six days. The inspections will be performed by Preformed Line Products (PLP), a contractor working on behalf of Lower Valley Energy.

During the inspection process, specialized drones will fly along the transmission line and collect detailed information using three different technologies:

• LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging): Uses laser technology to create highly accurate, three- dimensional models of power lines, poles, surrounding terrain, and vegetation. This allows LVE to identify trees growing too close to power lines, evaluate clearances, and assess the condition of its infrastructure.

• Infrared (Thermal Imaging): Uses specialized cameras to detect unusual heat patterns in electrical equipment. These images can help identify loose connections, deteriorating components, and other potential problems that may not be visible during a traditional inspection.

• High-Resolution Photography: Captures detailed images of poles, conductors, insulators, and other equipment. These photographs allow LVE personnel to identify damage, deterioration, and maintenance needs without requiring crews to physically climb every structure.

Proactive Maintenance to Improve Reliability
Drone inspections are an important part of Lower Valley Energy’s ongoing efforts to maintain a safe and reliable electric system. By combining these technologies, LVE can identify potential problems before they lead to equipment failures or power outages.

The information collected will be reviewed by LVE’s engineering and operations teams to help prioritize maintenance activities, plan future improvements, and address potential reliability concerns along this important transmission corridor.

“Drone technology gives us another valuable tool to evaluate the condition of our electric system and identify potential problems before they cause an outage,” said Bear Prairie, CEO of Lower Valley Energy.

“Instead of waiting for equipment to fail, we can use detailed imagery and data to make informed maintenance decisions. This helps us improve reliability, use our members’ dollars more efficiently, and keep our employees safe by reducing the need for certain inspections that require climbing poles or working near energized equipment.”

What Members Can Expect
Members and residents in the Alpine-to-Hoback corridor may notice drones operating near transmission lines, power poles, and other electrical infrastructure during the inspection period.

The drones will be operated by personnel working on behalf of Lower Valley Energy. Flights will focus on inspecting utility infrastructure and the surrounding areas necessary to evaluate line conditions and clearances.

No planned power outages are anticipated as a result of these inspections. Members do not need to take any action. Lower Valley Energy appreciates the cooperation and understanding of members as it continues investing in technologies and maintenance practices that support safe, reliable electric service.