Visitors to Champion Lakes Regatta Centre were treated to a spectacular sight last week as Western Power workers conducted helicopter patrols of the large powerlines.
Western Power operational services head Stewart Furness said they undertook regular helicopter patrols throughout the year to inspect and maintain the electricity network when the weather conditions were favourable.
“Because of the height, size and location of the network structures the most efficient and practical way to inspect and maintain them is by the use of helicopter,” he said.
“If network maintenance is required during an inspection, highly skilled technicians safely repair the powerline while in the air by sitting on a platform located in the helicopter.
“We also use helicopters to safely wash network equipment by spraying it with de-mineralised water to remove dust and pollution that builds up on insulators and can cause electrical faults.”
