FEC using drones for power line inspections

Flathead Electric Cooperative is inspecting power lines and electrical equipment using drone technology this year in an effort to maintain safe, reliable service.

The co-op has partnered with Voltair, a certified utility inspection contractor, to assess equipment across its service territory in northwest Montana. These inspections will help identify issues such as cracked insulators, damaged crossarms or encroaching vegetation. 

By catching equipment issues early, the Co-op can prevent power outages and potential hazards.

Starting next week, Voltair will begin inspecting equipment within the cdswzo-op’s rights of way in the Libby area. Work is expected to last up to two weeks, depending on weather conditions. This fall, inspections will occur west of Kalispell.

By using drones to capture high-resolution imagery of equipment that is often difficult to see from the ground, the co-op can identify and repair potential hazards before they lead to power outages or wildfire risks. Traditional in-person inspections can still be effective, but they can be time consuming, costly and difficult in rugged or remote terrain.

Residents may see small drones hovering near power poles for approximately 10 minutes at a time. All inspection teams will be accompanied by vehicles clearly marked with both Flathead Electric and Voltair signage, and personnel will carry official photo identification.

Inspection crews will utilize the co-op's existing rights of way around their electric infrastructure including easements on private property. If conditions require additional access, members will be notified.

The co-op understands and respects the privacy of its members. These drones are industrial tools used strictly for maintenance, not surveillance. Crews are focused solely on inspecting and photographing the Co-op’s equipment within the utility right-of-way; not on private property.

These inspections will not impact service.

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office issued a press release explaining that shooting a drone is a federal crime, even if the drone is flying over someone's private property. 

The Federal Aviation Administration classifies all drones as aircraft, which means they are subject to the same federal laws as airplanes. According to the Aircraft Sabotage Act, it is a felony to willfully damage, destroy or wreck any aircraft, including drones; disable or interfere with an aircraft's operation and place destructive devices near an aircraft.

Potential penalties includes up to 20 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000 and the permanent loss of firearm rights.

Those with concerns should call the local sheriff's office or 911.

For more information about the aerial inspection program, including a list of Frequently Asked Questions, please visit https://www.flatheadelectric.com/outages-safety/drone-inspections/