Ausgrid will use thermal imagining equipment to inspect major power lines from a low-flying helicopter across the Lower Hunter this week.
The patrols will survey Ausgrid’s 132,000 Volt high-voltage lines to locate hot spots on the network.
Crews will use an infrared camera to help identify potential defects which may pose a bushfire risk.
More than 150km of power lines will be inspected from Tuesday to Thursday and include Wyee, Morriset, Awaba, Toronto, Rathmines, West Wallsend, Heddon Greta and Killingworth.
Ausgird’s chief operating officer Trevor Armstrong advised the inspections will be in rural and semi-rural areas.
“The noise from the chopper may startle livestock and horses and we’d advise property owners to consider taking steps to confine their animals to avoid any distress to the animals,” he said.
Mr Armstrong said patrols will take place between 7.30am and 5pm, weather permitting.
“These main transmission lines are the backbone of the region’s electricity supply and using a helicopter is the safest and most efficient way to inspect them,” he said.
“The thermal vision camera helps us identify any potential defects on the joints between the lengths of powerlines so we can then send crews to inspect them and make any repairs before any problems occur.
“The patrols are a key part of our commitment to keeping our customers and communities safe.”
Inspections will also take place in parts of Berowra, Mt. Kuringai, Somersby, Gosford, Ourimbah, Berkeley Vale and Tuggerah.
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