Flathead Electric Cooperative conducts aerial inspections of power lines

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.

Voltair is inspecting equipment within the co-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.

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