ITC, a major power company in Michigan, will be conducting aerial inspections of its high-voltage transmission structures and power lines using helicopters. Thus, these inspections will take place from September 9th to October 4th, weather permitting.

1. Why Are There Low-Flying Helicopters Near Michigan Power Lines?

Eventually, the goal of these patrols is to assess the overall condition of the overhead transmission system operated by:

  • ITC’s Michigan subsidiaries
  • ITCTransmission
  • Michigan Electric Transmission Company

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Which Michigan Counties Will ITC’s Power Lines’ Aerial Patrols Cover?

ITC’s aerial inspections will cover a large portion of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. To clarify, here’s the breakdown by county and date:

  • September 9-12: Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Arenac, Bay, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Clare, Crawford, Emmet, Gladwin, Grand Traverse, Iosco, Kalkaska, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Midland, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon, and Wexford.
  • September 13-17: Allegan, Clinton, Gratiot, Ionia, Isabella, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Midland, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, and Ottawa.
  • September 18-20: Allegan, Barry, Branch, Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, Hillsdale, Ingham, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Lenawee, Monroe, Ottawa, Shiawassee, St. Joseph, Van Buren, and Washtenaw.
  • September 23-30: Bay, Genesee, Gratiot, Huron, Ingham, Isabella, Lapeer, Livingston, Macomb, Midland, Montcalm, Oakland, Saginaw, Sanilac, Shiawassee, St. Clair, and Tuscola.
  • October 1-4: Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne.

2. Importance of ITC’s Helicopter Patrols for Michigan’s Power Grid:

ITC’s helicopter patrols are a necessary part of their vegetation management program. These inspections are required by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and help to make sure the safety and reliability of Michigan’s power grid.

Furthermore, the patrols involve a thorough examination of all transmission structures and equipment, including:

  • Monopoles
  • Steel towers
  • Wood poles
  • Wires
  • Insulators, and more

This proactive maintenance helps prevent potential problems and keeps the power flowing smoothly.

3. Benefits of ITC Aerial Inspections for Michigan’s Power Lines:

  • ITC crews carefully inspect transmission lines for signs of damage, wear, and potential hazards caused by vegetation.
  • To perform thorough inspections, the helicopters often fly at low altitudes, allowing for a detailed visual examination of the equipment.
  • This is a standard procedure, so there’s no need to worry if you see a low-flying helicopter near power lines.

Summing Up ITC Michigan to Conduct Helicopter Inspections of Power Lines:

ITC Holdings Corp. (ITC), the nation’s largest independent electricity transmission company headquartered in Novi, Michigan, is preparing to conduct aerial inspections of its power lines in the state. Also, ITC owns and operates two Michigan subsidiaries: ITCTransmission and METC, collectively known as ITC Michigan.

These two systems span approximately 8,700 circuit miles of transmission lines, serving most of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. The inspections aim to ensure a reliable power supply for residents.

For more information on ITC and its subsidiaries, visit http://www.itc-holdings.com/.

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FAQs:

1. Who requires these aerial inspections for power lines?

The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) mandates these inspections.

2. Are there any safety concerns associated with these patrols?

No, these patrols are a standard procedure and do not pose any safety risks.

3. How often are these inspections conducted?

Basically, the frequency of inspections varies, but they are typically conducted regularly to maintain the integrity of the power grid.