Xcel Energy tests drones to speed up power line inspections
- Xcel Energy is testing drone technology in Colorado to inspect power lines.
- The initiative aims to speed up restoration times after outages due to fire risks.
- The use of drones enables inspections to begin immediately, significantly improving restoration efficiency.
In Colorado, Xcel Energy is pioneering the use of drone technology for inspecting power lines, particularly in areas vulnerable to fire hazards. The intention behind this initiative is to expedite restoration times for electrical service, especially when lines have been deactivated due to the risk posed by fires. As explained by Zach Roach, the UAS Program Manager for Xcel Energy, deploying drones enables immediate inspection of power lines following reports of outages. This strategy not only sharpens the efficiency of response teams but drastically reduces the time needed to assess and restore power. Historically, restoring power after deactivating lines could take considerable time. Traditionally, Xcel Energy would need to mobilize a lineman or truck to the affected area before any inspections could start. Such procedures often lead to unnecessary delays, particularly in remote regions where physical access is challenging and time-consuming. By replacing manual inspections with drones, the energy provider aims to minimize mobilization time, allowing teams to commence assessments instantly without the logistical constraints of ground vehicles. The drone technology employed is specifically designed for high-altitude inspections, targeting regions that have been notoriously problematic in terms of accessibility. This innovation responds to both the challenges presented by mountainous terrains and the urgency of restoring electrical service in critical areas where outages could have significant impacts on safety and daily functioning. Xcel Energy anticipates that the implementation of drone technology will boost restoration efficiency by 10 to 20 times compared to traditional methods. The overall goal is to enhance the reliability of power delivery in fire-prone areas, thus improving service for customers while also contributing to greater public safety. This change reflects a growing trend within the energy sector to adopt advanced technologies in response to increasing environmental challenges.