Ausgrid is employing drones to complement helicopter patrols of its Hunter and Central Coast energy infrastructure ahead of the next bushfire season.
Equipped with high-resolution LiDAR scanning technology, the drones can capture millions of data points to build precise 3D models of power lines, poles and surrounding vegetation.
This allows crews to identify potential bushfire risks earlier and respond more efficiently on the ground.
"Every year we inspect our network to reduce bushfire risk, but how we do that is evolving," Ausgrid group executive network and digital Junayd Hollis said.
"This technology gives us a clearer, more detailed picture of our assets, while reducing the need for low-flying helicopters over homes, farms and sensitive environments."
Unlike helicopters, drones can be deployed in more localised areas, significantly reducing noise impacts for customers and minimising disruption to livestock and agricultural operations.
Drones also deliver lower operational costs and reduced emissions while improving the accuracy and efficiency of inspections.
NSW Rural Fire Service Hunter Area Commander Chief Superintendent Kam Baker said preparation was a shared responsibility.
While fire agencies, electricity providers and land managers do everything they can, homeowners are encouraged to prepare and maintain their properties throughout the year.
"Bushfires pose a very real risk to the Hunter and Central Coast regions, and electricity infrastructure can exacerbate that risk if it isn't properly maintained, that's why this program is critical," Chief Superintendent Baker said.
The program, which began in April, is assessing thousands of kilometres of the Ausgrid network in bushfire-prone areas across Sydney, the Central Coast and the Hunter.
A combination of aerial, drone and ground-based patrols will assess network safety and identify hazards associated with vegetation.
Ausgrid will again partner with specialist field services provider Service Stream to carry out on-the-ground inspections, including checks of private power poles and overhead lines.
