The Rockliff Liberal Government congratulates TasNetworks on continuing to look for safety and transmission network savings while also protecting the security of Tasmania's electricity supply.
''Maintaining Tasmania's transmission network is a significant contributor to electricity prices so any savings that will help households and businesses during a time of market volatility is welcomed,'' Minister Barnett said.
''TasNetworks routinely inspects its overhead network from above to check for faults and defects. These inspections are crucial for minimising outages, maximising reliability, and preventing spark outages that contribute to starting bushfires.
''TasNetworks has traditionally performed these inspections by helicopter, which can be noisy and disruptive for both residents and livestock. Helicopter inspections have been unpopular and subject to complaint from some residents over many years.
''A successful trial in 2022 has determined that much smaller and virtually silent drones can be used instead of helicopters to perform most distribution network inspections with a saving of more than $500,000 per year and a reduction in emissions,'' Minister Barnett said.
The Tasmanian business, Fulcrum Robotics, will be hired as the contractor operating drones on TasNetworks' behalf.
Helicopter inspections will still be needed for emergency situations, aerial transmission inspections, some eagle nest surveys, and situations where TasNetworks needs to inspect a large section of network very quickly.
TasNetworks has confirmed that customers will be notified by targeted SMS, social media and through the TasNetworks website when a drone is operating in their area and will operate under the strictest privacy laws and regulations.
