To ensure the reliable delivery of electricity during the summer months, FirstEnergy Corp. is conducting aerial inspections across nearly 5,000 miles of high-voltage power lines in its six-state service area. The inspections employ infrared and ultraviolet technology to detect early-stage equipment issues that are not visible through regular inspections.
These comprehensive inspections are carried out every four years in collaboration with FirstEnergy subsidiaries including American Transmission Systems Incorporated, Mid-Atlantic Interstate Transmission LLC, Keystone Appalachian Transmission Company, Trans-Allegheny Interstate Line Company, and Jersey Central Power & Light. They complement annual aerial patrols that focus on visible concerns like overgrown trees or damaged equipment.
"The transmission system is the first line of defense in preventing power outages because it supplies the electricity that flows into substations and along power lines to every single one of our customers," said Mark Mroczynski, President of FirstEnergy Transmission. "This work supports the vast investments we’re making to strengthen our power system to meet the country’s growing energy needs."
The inspection involves flying helicopters at speeds between 25 and 35 mph while using a camera mounted on the helicopter's underside. This camera allows thermographers to identify overheated components or voltage issues by viewing electrical equipment through infrared and ultraviolet spectrums.
The technology helps identify potential problems such as loose connections or load imbalances by displaying heat on a color scale. Ultraviolet technology can also detect electrical discharge caused by rusted hardware or cracked insulators. Issues identified during these inspections are addressed promptly to prevent service disruptions.
Currently, IR/UV aerial inspections are taking place in several states:
- Ohio: 1,046 miles inspected with nearly 64% completed.
- Pennsylvania: 2,220 miles inspected with about 50% completed.
- New Jersey: 630 miles inspected with about 42% completed.
- West Virginia & Maryland: 648 miles inspected with about 20% completed.
"Helicopters provide a view of electrical equipment that we can't get from the ground," Mroczynski added. "However, on-the-ground inspections are still necessary and underway to ensure our neighborhood power lines and equipment are ready to meet high demand for electricity."
This initiative is part of Energize365, a multi-year grid evolution program aimed at creating a smarter and more secure grid with planned investments totaling $28 billion between 2025 and 2029.
FirstEnergy operates one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems serving multiple states including Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York.
For further inquiries contact Lauren Siburkis for news media at (330) 203-8850 or Karen Sagot for investors at (330) 761-4286.