This week, Maui Electric Company will use UAS and a helicopter to conduct routine aerial power line inspections throughout the island of Maui, weather permitting.

As part of the aerial survey, documentation will be done using a remote light detection and ranging surveying instrument, providing updated maps of the island’s transmission lines and other electrical infrastructure.

A helicopter and inspectors on foot will also assess spans of electrical equipment in areas that have certain air space regulations or limited functioning ranges for the UAS operators.

Maui Electric Company says that the UAS will be used as a “cost effective measure” when accessing remote areas or challenging terrains, which will help increase employee safety, and reduce the company’s carbon footprint.

“When appropriate, using drones are safer, less expensive, and faster than conventional assessments of our electrical equipment,” says Chris Reynolds, director of operational technology at Maui Electric.

“We appreciate the public’s understanding during these routine aerial inspections of our equipment as they are necessary in maintaining safe and reliable electrical service to our communities.”

Maui Electric Company has been using UAS for a variety of inspections, including recently when the company used the technology to evaluate power lines that were damaged by recent wild fires on the island.

The company notes that its UAS program is in full compliance with all FAA rules, and it has also developed safety, training, operating and privacy procedures to ensure that its UAS are flown with the “highest regard for the safety of the public and crews.”