At VELCO, innovation meets purpose. Our drone program is transforming how we inspect, maintain, and enhance Vermont's electric transmission system - safely, efficiently, and sustainably. 

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With a fleet of drones and a team of FAA-certified drone pilots, we are using drone technology across several departments, including Asset Maintenance, Transmission Services, Telecommunications, Engineering, Construction, Access, and Communications. 

 

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Why We Use Drones

Our drones play a critical role in advancing VELCO's mission. From capturing high-resolution imagery during comprehensive line inspections to supporting digital transformations, the applications are many: 

  • Comprehensive transmission line inspections
  • Emergency inspections and storm response
  • Construction documentation and planning
  • Thermal imaging inspections for asset performance
  • Osprey nest monitoring for wildlife protection
  • Telecom support and infrastructure review
  • Support for corporate initiatives and storytelling
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Benefits

Using drones is more than just embracing new technology- it's about doing things better. Our drone program delivers significant value including: 

  • Enhanced safety - Reducing the need for helicopter or climbing, minimizing risk to personnel
  • Increased efficiency - Faster data collection and decision-making
  • Lower costs - Reducing expenses compared to traditional inspection methods
  • High-quality data and imagery - Supporting more-informed planning and operations
  • Minimized landowner impact - Less ground disturbance and faster access
  • Reduced greenhouse gas emissions - A more sustainable alternative to traditional aerial methods
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of drones does VELCO use?

We operate a fleet of professional-grade drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging, and other advanced capabilities to support a variety of inspection and documentation needs. All of the drones VELCO operates are considered Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) weighing less than 55 lbs.

Who operates the drones?

Our drones are flown by VELCO's FAA-certified pilots from multiple departments including engineering, telecom, and asset maintenance. VELCO also engages contractors for some larger inspection efforts, and for specialised operations. These contractors are all FAA certified drone pilots. 

Are drone flights safe and compliant with regulations?

Yes. All drone operations follow FAA guidelines, internal safety protocols, and are flown by certified pilots to ensure safe and responsible use. 

How do drones reduce environmental impact?

By reducing the need for helicopters and ground-based inspections in many cases, our drone program helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimizes disruption to landowners and sensitive areas. 

Do drones affect wildlife?

We take care to fly responsibly and avoid disturbing wildlife and livestock. In fact, one of our drone use cases is monitoring osprey nests to support wildlife protection efforts.

Does this mean VELCO will no longer be utilizing helicopters?

No, VELCO will continue to utilize helicopters for routine system-wide inspections, post storm inspections, and to facilitate work activities such as structure maintenance and wire pulling. 

Can the public see the drone footage?

Some drone footage is used for internal planning, safety, and inspection purposes. However, select footage may be shared publicly to support corporate initiatives, public safety communication, or storytelling efforts. 

How can I stay informed on the drone program?

VELCO uses the power of social media for many use cases and the drone program is one of them - follow us on both Facebook and LinkedIn! 

Questions?

If you have questions about VELCO's drone program or are interested in learning more, we are happy to hear from you!