Unmanned Aerial Systems: Current State of the Technology and Relevance to Rural Electric Utilities

Abstract

Electrical power utilities are increasingly looking for ways to more successfully and efficiently approach their operations, this is especially true for utilities with a rural footprint. Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) have garnered a lot of attention in the utility industry in recent years, and are envisioned to have a positive impact on electric operations. But while the market is awash in various UAS devices and software, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has yet to release definitive rules regarding UAS use. This presentation will focus on 2 topics, 1. The current state of UAS technology - regulation, accuracies, data creation, and examples of recent collects, and 2. The specific application of this technology to the rural electric utility industry -- from planning and construction through maintenance and inspection.