#USA #Drones #Jackson #Consumers Energy #electric grid

Harnessing Drone Technology for a Reliable Electric Grid

In the face of increasing demands for electrical reliability and safety, Consumers Energy has taken a significant leap forward by doubling its drone fleet over the past two years. This strategic move aims to bolster the efficiency and reliability of the electric grid they manage, which serves around 6.8 million residents in Michigan's lower peninsula. As the largest energy provider in the state, Consumers Energy remains committed to providing safe, dependable, and affordable energy, and these drones are a game-changer in their operational strategy.

Faster Inspections and Enhanced Accessibility

Drone technology has become a vital asset in the realm of electric grid management. Traditional inspection methods often require helicopters or ground crews traversing rough terrains, where accessibility can be a challenge. With the introduction of 40 drones and piloted by a team of equally licensed pilots, inspections can now be completed more quickly and affordably. While previous helicopters were responsible for surveying around 4,000 miles of overhead lines annually, approximately 400 miles remain difficult to inspect due to dense vegetation and hazardous urban landscapes—this is where drones come into play.

Each drone is equipped with advanced high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging systems that offer a comprehensive view of power lines, poles, and associated equipment. This technology enables team members to capture detailed photos and videos that effectively highlight signs of damage or deterioration. Not only does this facilitate routine maintenance and preventive measures, but it also identifies areas requiring additional attention, such as tree trimming to protect transmission lines.

Efficiency in Storm Recovery

Drones' roles extend beyond routine inspections; they have proven invaluable during emergency response situations. Following events like the devastating ice storm in Northern Michigan, drones were deployed in areas deemed unsafe for foot traffic or vehicles. Swiftly providing crucial visibility, these drones delivered real-time imagery of damaged infrastructure, allowing restoration teams to confirm the safety of power lines before re-energizing them. Such measures drastically improve response times and enhance safety protocols, ensuring reliable power supply even in adverse weather conditions.

A Future-Ready Strategy

As part of Consumers Energy's long-term vision, the drone program is intricately woven into their Reliability Roadmap. This comprehensive strategy aims to strengthen the electric grid by integrating innovative tools and projects, directly contributing to reduced outage times. In the previous year alone, consumers witnessed a decrease of over 20 minutes in their average downtime due to these advancements.

The company’s unwavering commitment to leveraging technology aligns with their dedication to customer satisfaction. Greg Salisbury, Senior Vice President of Electric Distribution at Consumers Energy, emphasized, "Reliability is at the core of everything we do. Drones allow us to spot and fix problems before they impact customers," he stated, pointing to the crucial role that drones play in the utility's ongoing efforts to ensure uninterrupted power supply.

For Consumers Energy, the commitment to keeping the lights on doesn’t just end with drones; they are continually looking for innovative ways to provide flexible and affordable energy solutions to millions of Michiganders.

For more insights and updates on Consumers Energy's initiatives, visit ConsumersEnergy.com.