Use of drones for Rochester power line checks begins Tuesday

A drone on a mock inspection of Eversource lines in Hooksett. (Courtesy photo)

HOOKSETT - Eversource announced on Thursday that it is now using drones to inspect some of its transmission lines in New Hampshire.

A company called MESA will undertake to perform these critical inspections, according to an Eversource press release. MESA is registered with the FAA and will be following all state and federal regulations.

Maintaining infrastructure is a critical component and usually an annual event that ensures secure and safe transmission of electricity. In the past, Eversource used ground vehicles and helicopters to do this work.

The latest drone technology allows us to perform the same work which will be less intrusive, lower cost, quicker information and less noisy, according to Eversource.

Each drone measures roughly two feet across and is equipped with a camera. It will be manned by a drone operator on the ground within the Eversource right-of-way. Photos will be taken only of structures within the right-of-way and will require about 15-30 minutes.

The work hours are 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Work taking advantage of drone technology began on Thursday.

All customers who abut the rights-of-way where the work will take place have been notified, as well as all the municipal officials.

Visual inspection of lines in Rochester and Strafford will begin on Tuesday.

The timetable for other cities and towns in the Rochester area was not released.