Xcel Energy plans to survey transmission lines by helicopter to check for trouble. | Stock photo
Xcel Energy plans to survey transmission lines by helicopter to check for trouble. | Stock photo
As summer approaches, Xcel Energy is taking to the airwaves to make sure electric lines are reliable, the West Central Tribune reported.
The utility is using helicopters to spot transmission lines troubles, according to a company news release, the story stated.
"Helicopter inspections give us an opportunity to take a closer look at the lines and see a fairly close, bird's-eye view to identify repairs we may need to make to help ensure the reliability of the grid," Ralph Melgard, Xcel Energy transmission line maintenance coordinator, said in the news release.
Helicopters can get to within 50 feet of the transmission lines and hover near them to observe, the statement said. The utility, headquartered in Minneapolis, has 7,000 miles of transmission lines in the upper Midwest, the Tribune reported. It provides energy to customers in eight states.
The inspections will take eight to 10 weeks depending on weather conditions, the story stated.
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