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AEP Ohio Embraces Drone Technology for Smarter, Faster Power Grid Management

AEP Ohio, a leading electricity provider in the Buckeye State, is embracing the future of grid infrastructure management. The company has announced the launch of a new drone program designed to enhance inspection efficiency and significantly reduce the duration of power outages for its customers. This innovative approach marks a significant step forward in utilising cutting-edge technology to improve service reliability and resilience.

For years, inspecting power lines, substations, and other critical grid components has been a labour-intensive and often dangerous process. Traditional methods involve ground crews and bucket trucks, which can be slow, costly, and susceptible to weather conditions. AEP Ohio’s new drone program offers a safer, faster, and more cost-effective alternative.

How Drones are Transforming Inspections

The drone program will see teams deploying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced sensors across thousands of miles of circuits throughout Ohio. These drones can capture detailed images and videos of power lines, towers, and equipment, identifying potential issues such as:

• Damaged or worn-out components
• Vegetation encroachment
• Signs of corrosion or deterioration

The data collected by the drones is then analysed by AEP Ohio’s engineers and technicians, allowing them to proactively address potential problems before they lead to outages. This predictive maintenance approach is a key component of the program's goal to improve grid reliability.

Benefits for Customers and the Grid

The implementation of drone technology brings a multitude of benefits for both AEP Ohio and its customers:

• Reduced Outage Duration: Early detection of potential issues allows for faster repairs and minimises the impact of outages.
• Improved Safety: Drones reduce the need for workers to climb poles and work at heights, significantly improving safety.
• Increased Efficiency: Drone inspections are faster and more efficient than traditional methods, allowing AEP Ohio to cover more ground in less time.
• Lower Costs: While there's an initial investment, the long-term cost savings from reduced outages and improved efficiency are substantial.
• Enhanced Grid Resilience: By proactively identifying and addressing vulnerabilities, AEP Ohio is strengthening the grid's ability to withstand extreme weather events and other disruptions.

Looking Ahead

AEP Ohio's drone program is just one example of the company’s commitment to investing in innovative technologies to improve service for its customers. As drone technology continues to evolve, AEP Ohio plans to explore additional applications, such as using drones to inspect vegetation around power lines and to assess damage after storms. This proactive approach to grid management will play a vital role in ensuring a reliable and resilient power supply for Ohio communities for years to come.

“We’re excited about the potential of this technology to transform our inspection processes and help us deliver even more reliable service to our customers,” said a spokesperson from AEP Ohio. “This is a significant investment in the future of our grid and a testament to our commitment to providing safe, affordable, and reliable electricity.”