Terna has finished monitoring the overhead electricity grid in Friuli-Venezia Giulia using its helicopter fleet.
Seven helicopters were used to inspect nearly 2000 km of overhead lines in different provinces, totaling 146 power lines at 60, 132, 220, and 380 kV. These helicopters are equipped with advanced technology that allows on-board personnel to view real-time data.
Aerial inspections check for abnormalities on conductors and pylons to ensure service efficiency. Terna analyzes around 240 km of lines per day, compared to 15 km for ground-level inspections. However, ground-level inspections remain essential for detecting anomalies that can't be seen from above. By the end of 2023, the Italian national transmission grid operator plans to inspect over 44,000 km of high-voltage power lines using infrared technology.
Following the completion of aerial inspections, the collected data undergoes analysis and processing using a computerized Decision Support System (DSS). This system proactively assists in making maintenance decisions for the power plant by suggesting inspections, maintenance work, and asset replacements based on predefined schedules.
Many professionals from Terna’s Plant Units across Italy underwent training to hand this advanced equipment at the company’s dedicated training center. Upon completion of the training, they obtained the qualification of Helicopter Inspection Specialist.
