EG.D uses drones to inspect power lines in Czechia's Brno region without cutting power

Energy company EG.D has begun using a drone in routine operations to inspect very high-voltage lines in the Brno region. It has been testing drones since 2018, with its energy technicians first deploying one in Písek. Using a drone shortens the time needed to locate faults and allows lines to be inspected while live, without having to switch off the power, EG.D spokesman Lubomír Budný told reporters today.

„Using a drone recently proved worthwhile when a fault occurred at the substation in Sokolnice near Brno, where a transformer between ČEPS's transmission system and our grid failed. The drone inspection revealed a damaged insulator that was faulty on its upper side. This kind of defect cannot be seen through binoculars from the ground; it would only be found during an inspection by climbers after the power had been switched off,“ Budný said.

He added that the fault was found and repaired within a few hours this way, whereas the standard procedure could take several days.