Mon Power Utilizes Helicopter Aerial Saw for Effective Tree Trimming
In an innovative approach to power line maintenance, Mon Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., has deployed a helicopter equipped with an aerial saw to tackle vegetation that threatens high-voltage transmission lines. This project spans 230 miles across various counties in West Virginia and aims to maintain the reliability of power supply.
The aerial saw, which is operated from a helicopter, provides a quick and effective means to trim trees in hard-to-reach areas. This method is particularly beneficial for accessing locations that are environmentally sensitive or unreachable by traditional ground equipment. By utilizing the aerial saw, Mon Power can complete in a single day what would take ground crews a week to finish, thus ensuring efficient operations and minimal disruption.
The initiative is not just about aesthetics; it significantly reduces the risk of tree-related outages—a pressing concern, especially during severe weather conditions common in both summer and winter. Jim Myers, the president for West Virginia and Maryland Operations at Mon Power, emphasized the importance of keeping power lines clear. ‘Ensuring our high-voltage power lines are free from potential interference is essential for maintaining system reliability,’ he stated.
The aerial saw is capable of slicing through tree limbs between 8 to 10 inches in diameter, which then fall harmlessly to the ground, thanks to air blasts produced by the helicopter’s rotors. Ground crews are on hand to manage the debris, moving it away from roads, yards, agricultural fields, and streams. Safety is also prioritized during this operation, with staff stationed to manage traffic whenever the aerial saw is active nearby.
Additionally, contractors have been trimming trees along 1,700 miles of distribution power lines as part of an ongoing effort, with plans to cover a further 3,500 miles by the year's end. This extensive tree-trimming initiative underscores Mon Power's commitment to serving approximately 395,000 customers across 34 counties in West Virginia.
With the advent of this technology, Mon Power exemplifies how utilities can enhance service reliability through innovative solutions. The company encourages its customers to follow their updates through various platforms, including their official website and social media channels. The aerial saw operations will continue, subject to favorable weather conditions and regulatory compliance.
For Mon Power and FirstEnergy Corp., maintaining the reliability and safety of their electric distribution network is paramount. The deployment of the helicopter equips them to address vegetation challenges that could impact thousands, reinforcing their dedication to excellence in service delivery. Customers can look forward to enhanced operations and continued safety as Mon Power navigates the complexities of utility management in today’s challenging environment.