Benton PUD will be using our recently purchased unmanned aircraft (or drone) to perform a visual inspection of our lines, wire and other equipment to assess and document damage and potential hot spots.  Inspections will take place the week of August 10 in the South Kennewick area and near Jump Off Joe and Johnson Butte.

Benton PUD has over 1,000 miles of overhead transmission and distribution line and service wire in our service area.  Patrolling these assets can be costly and sometimes impossible due to rugged terrain or other obstructions that limit accessibility.  Benton PUD plans to use the drone from time to time to patrol lines and inspect equipment from a safe distance.  Crews certified as drone operators are FAA licensed drone pilots.

If you have any questions about our use of drones,  please contact Operations at 509-582-1254.