As an essential service provider, we are taking steps to modernize our electric grid. Our asset management team is now using drones to remotely monitor and inspect substations. This technology improves efficiency, reduces response times and lowers operational costs.
Recently, Entergy completed installation of three Skydio X10 drones at substations in Central Mississippi. These drones are equipped with cameras that can detect visual and thermal abnormalities. Federal Aviation Administration approval was granted for beyond visual line of sight operations, allowing pilots to remotely initiate flight, perform the substation inspection and then automatically return the drone to a weatherproofed docking stations to recharge.
This drone program is part of a broader effort to use new technologies that support safe and efficient data collection on the health and operating condition of our assets. Real-time alerts and long-term trend analysis allow us to take a more targeted approach for maintenance and resource allocation.
“Our current manual inspection processes require a substantial resource commitment by our substation area crews and are limited to the monthly schedule,” said Audie Foret, manager of technology development and analytics. “By identifying and deploying the right technology partners, we can gather more data points for forecasting trends and analysis, resulting in improved reliability, operating efficiency, safety and ultimately customer service.”
In addition to the drone program, we are also using tracked robots, pan-tilt-zoom cameras and AI imagery analysis software to remotely monitor our critical infrastructure. Together these systems help:
- Reduce equipment failures and improve maintenance planning.
- Transition from time-based maintenance to condition-based maintenance.
- Phase out manual inspections in favor of frequent, autonomous assessments.
- Enhance analytic capabilities for more efficient use of resources.
“Our early pilot programs have already demonstrated the benefits of remote monitoring, proving we can transform how we provide reliable electric service to our customers,” said Clay Adams, director of power delivery asset management strategy. “We’re excited to expand these programs and realize their full potential as we work to improve the customer experience, reliability and the overall health of our electric grid assets.”
