The Guam Power Authority has undertaken a pilot project with a local company utilizing drone technology to digitally map the aAuthority’s power lines, poles and other line hardware on the Island Wide Power System (IWPS).
Drone Optics is the local company under contract to help complete the digital mapping and imagery project for use within GPA’s geographic information system.
“Drone Optics recently completed digital mapping of power lines in Yigo,” said Melinda C. Mafnas, assistant general manager of operations.
“Digital mapping operations take place during the daylight hours when visibility is greatest and only within the utility easement where our lines, poles and hardware are present.”
The data gathered will be used to help with maintenance forecasting, deployment of man power and equipment as well as thermal imaging for prioritization of line maintenance efforts.
“Drone Optics will continue their digital mapping project for areas of the South heading into late June through early July,” Mafnas said.
“Drone Optics will be operating alongside roadways following all safety requirements. Furthermore, all Drone Optics employees will have their GPA issued contractor ID badges clearly displayed.”