Utilities Seek Tweaks for Drone Spectrum Rules
Electric utilities are urging that the FCC allow networked operations for drones in shared-use parts of the 5030-5091 MHz band, where technically feasible. Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel recently circulated an order on the band (see 2404080065). Electric utilities representatives met with…
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an aide to Commissioner Brendan Carr. Drones allow businesses in the critical infrastructure industry "to more efficiently inspect and repair infrastructure, improve worker safety, and maintain consistent, reliable service for customers,” said a filing posted Friday in docket 22-323. Represented at the meeting were Florida Power & Light, Pacific Gas & Electric, Xcel Energy and the Edison Electric Institute. The utilities offered examples of how they use uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS). “PG&E’s 79,000-square mile service territory includes extremely remote areas such as the Trinity Alps in Northwest California,” the filing said: “To inspect and maintain infrastructure in such difficult-to-reach areas, crews work extended shifts under difficult conditions, such as poor roads, which increases the risk that crews and property will suffer injury. … By allowing utilities to inspect infrastructure remotely, UAS reduces the need for unnecessary truck rolls, thereby improving worker safety.”