15 May 2008 13:35 Central Networks takes to the skies to check electricity lines

Central Networks, the electricity distribution company for central England, is carrying out helicopter patrols as part of its network inspection work.

The patrols will be carried out by a helicopter which is used to spot potential hazards and to highlight areas where future work may be needed on the overhead electricity network.

Jim O'Sullivan, Director of Infrastructure Services at Central Networks, said: "We're responsible for around 48,000km of overhead cabling across the Midlands and using a helicopter patrol is the safest, fastest and most effective way to carry out checks on large sections of the network.

"Taking a bird's eye view of the network enables us to check large areas quickly. We're able to spot potential hazards early so that we can plan our investment and maintenance work more effectively, and do any necessary work before it causes problems for our customers.

"We pride ourselves on our commitment to our customers, and these patrols form just part of our efforts to continually improve the standard of service they receive."

The helicopter patrols will also be on the lookout for trees growing into overhead lines, which can cause problems in stormy weather.

Central Networks, which is part of E.ON UK, carries out helicopter patrols across the East and West Midlands every year in the summer.

The exact timings and routes to be followed will depend on weather conditions, but it is expected to take between three and four weeks to cover the high voltage network in the East Midlands.

In addition to the 48,000km of overhead cable Central Networks looks after, the company also owns and operates over 84,000km of underground cabling.

Ends

Notes to editors:

• Central Networks brings power to 4.9 million customers across central England through 133,000km of underground and overhead cables and via almost 97,000 substations;
• Central Networks covers an area from the Peak District in the north to parts of Bristol in the south, and from the Welsh Borders to the Lincolnshire Coast.

For further information contact:
Andrew Barrow on 024 7618 3677
A selection of Central Networks pictures is available free of charge to the media by registering at www.newscast.co.uk and looking under Distribution