Endeavour Energy deploys drones before bushfire season

Endeavour Energy is preparing for the next Australian summer by deploying drones to inspect more than 160,000 poles in bushfire-prone areas.

During this annual inspection, drones equipped with high-definition cameras are flown directly above powerlines in order to identify equipment in need of repair, making sure the network is prepared in the event of bushfires.

“Endeavour Energy switched from helicopter to drone inspections in 2024, with the shift leading to greater efficiency, speed and precision, while also significantly reducing any impact on customers and the environment,” said Steve Lette, Head of Digital and Insights at Endeavour Energy.

Endeavour Energy drone inspection.

Lette said the technology allowed the utility to conduct inspections more effectively by reducing noise and disruption for local communities, enabling faster and more accurate assessment of powerlines, poles and other assets, and improving visibility of hard‑to‑reach equipment in bushfire‑prone areas.

“The use of drones has also enabled more precise, risk‑based targeting of poles in high‑risk locations, further reducing bushfire risk,” Lette added.

“These aerial patrols are one of the most visible parts of our year-round bushfire preparedness program — identifying potential risks early so we can carry out maintenance before summer peaks.”

During an inspection, the bright orange drones fly directly along powerlines, accompanied by an Endeavour Energy pilot on the ground.

Drones will be flying in bushfire-prone areas within the Endeavour Energy region over the next six months.

Top image caption: One of Endeavour Energy’s bright orange drones. Images courtesy of Endeavour Energy.