Network operator Transgrid has carried out hundreds of hours of helicopter inspections, aerial imagery, 3D laser scanning, thermographic surveying, vegetation management and network maintenance across thousands of kilometres of transmission lines to help protect local communities from bushfires.
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Transgrid’s 2023 bushfire safety management program included:
- A 3D laser aerial survey of easements across the entire network using LiDAR technology to identify vegetation growing too close to transmission lines
- An extensive vegetation management program with on-the-ground teams assessing and mitigating potential vegetation encroachments
- Helicopter inspections and aerial imagery of the network to physically assess the condition of towers and lines
- On-the-ground teams carrying out network inspections and maintenance to avoid potential bushfire hazards, and
- Thermographic surveying of substations to identify and address any required asset upgrades.
“These aerial surveys and inspections involved 500 flying hours and have enabled our teams on the ground to proactively respond to potential bushfire hazards including vegetation management and tower and line maintenance,” Transgrid executive general manager of network Marie Jordan said.
“About half of our maintenance expenditure each year relates to mitigating bushfire risk, including ongoing and comprehensive vegetation management to maintain our easement corridors. This is conducted in parallel with asset inspection programs and rectification works to ensure the safe operation of our network.
“Transgrid also works closely with the NSW Rural Fire Service and local Bush Fire Management Committees made up of landholders, land managers, fire authorities and community organisations.”
Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers said the importance of taking preventative actions ahead of the bushfire season could not be overstated.
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“As we move out of a period of incredibly wet weather, the risk of serious bush and grass fires is returning to NSW,” Commissioner Rogers said.
“Transgrid’s commitment to preparedness is an important part of ensuring our people are in the best position possible to protect communities across the state when fire does threaten.”
