HIGH TECH: TransGrid will this week undertake aerial patrols of high-voltage powerlines in the North West.
HIGH-VOLTAGE electricity-transmission network owner TransGrid have taken to the skies this week to conduct aerial patrols of powerlines in northern NSW.
The inspections, which started on Monday, are part of TransGrid’s annual maintenance program, with patrols to be carried out in the Northern Tablelands, North Coast and Northern Rivers regions.
TransGrid are using a specialist team, high-tech equipment and helicopters to fly close to powerlines in order to conduct the essential maintenance work.
Weather permitting, residents will see helicopter inspections taking place until next Tuesday in the following areas: Armidale today, tomorrow and next Tuesday; Tenterfield and Glen Innes today; Inverell and Moree tomorrow; Narrabri and Gunnedah tomorrow and Friday; Murrurundi next Monday; and Tamworth tomorrow, Friday and next Monday and Tuesday.
TransGrid northern region manager Wayne Glanville said excellent planning and expertise was required to maintain more than 12,600km of high-voltage
transmission line across NSW and the ACT.
“These helicopter patrols are critical to identify potential faults, ensuring maintenance work can be planned and reliability levels of more than 99 per cent maintained,” Mr Glanville said.
“A routine maintenance strategy, designed specifically for transmission structures, is in place to ensure all structures are regularly inspected.
“This strategy is fundamental in ensuring the reliability and security of the lines.”
Mr Glanville said TransGrid would make every effort to minimise noise generated while undertaking the aerial patrols, which will take place between 8am and 4pm during weekdays.
“TransGrid thanks the community for their understanding and patience as this essential maintenance work is carried out,” he said.
For more information call TransGrid’s toll free hotline on 1800 222 537.
