Memphis Light, Gas and Water is using drone pilots from UAV Recon to inspect overhead electrical equipment in the Castalia Heights neighborhood. The utility previously used drones to inspect 9,000 utility poles around Orange Mound. The repairs and maintenance that came about because of those inspections helped cut service interruptions by roughly 50%. The inspections are part of the utility’s continued efforts to improve electric infrastructure.

Drone pilots are licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). They use the drone’s camera to record issues like rotted/damaged utility poles, damaged fuses, transformers and other equipment. Using drones for overhead inspection is more efficient and less time-consuming.

MLGW plans on doing system wide inspections over the next year. Drone inspections happen Monday through Friday during business hours. Drone pilots will have identification and travel in MLGW-branded vehicles. Customers with concerns can call MLGW at 544-6549 to verify whether an inspector is in their neighborhood.

Memphis Light, Gas and Water is the largest three-service public power utility in the nation, serving the residents of Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee since 1939. MLGW consistently provides customers with rates that are amongst the lowest in the nation and stewards a water supply from artesian wells that is minimally treated. Actively engaged in promoting the prosperity of Memphis and Shelby County, MLGW supports the seven local chambers in its service area and makes doing business with local, minority- and women-owned business a priority. Deeply rooted in the community, its employees generously donate time and money in support of bettering the Greater Memphis area.