Annual helicopter patrols in February help keep ActewAGL’s electricity network one of the most reliable in the country.
The chopper will fly for three weeks, weather permitting, from Monday 6 February, inspecting ActewAGL’s overhead electricity network as part of its essential maintenance program.
The patrols will cover roughly 2,400km of overhead powerlines, saving time and resources to inspect vegetation around poles and wires.
ActewAGL Branch Manager Works Delivery Clinton McAlister said, “In suburban areas the helicopters fly around 310 metres above the ground in order to survey the network and use Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to determine the distance between powerlines and trees.
“We all love our bush capital, but trees and branches falling on powerlines is the biggest cause of unplanned outages and increases the risk of bushfires. Trees and vegetation can also restrict access, preventing essential maintenance from being carried out.
“These patrols ensure we continue to keep our network one of the most reliable in Australia.
“Where we find trees too close to powerlines, we will send out letters to Canberrans with a reminder to have their trees trimmed, including a list of ActewAGL accredited tree surgeons they should use.
“It’s important to only use accredited tree surgeons for your safety, as they’re trained to work with trees close to live wires.
“In rural areas, the helicopters will fly 110 to 150 metres, where we then prioritise cutting of vegetation too close to powerlines using our accredited tree surgeon contractors.
For more information visit ActewAGL’s website actewagl.com.au
Helicopter patrols begin Monday 4 February in the ACT
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