Power to the People - 3 x 500kV Drone Stringing at Site C with Infravision and BC Hydro

The Site C hydroelectric project in British Columbia, Canada, is a landmark clean energy initiative, valued at over $10 billion, designed to power millions of homes with hydroelectric power. Infravision was tasked with connecting the critical 3 x 500kV transmission lines that channel power from the Peace River dam to the grid. Utilizing cutting-edge drone technology, Infravision integrated with BC Hydro line crews to deliver a low-impact, safe, and highly efficient stringing solution that significantly minimized the site’s exclusion zone and environmental footprint.

Infravision's purpose built drones, networked automatic puller tensioner system and pilots executed precise aerial stringing over a densely populated work site, integrating seamlessly with traditional crews and ensuring a well-coordinated operation. This innovative approach not only enhanced safety by eliminating the need for close-proximity helicopter operations but was also fast, with the drone work being completed ahead of schedule.

Clinton Mowbry senior field manager for BC Hydro's aircraft operations department had the following to say after watching the first flight "The whole process, actually, after you see one run of it, really puts you at ease that this is a really safe and efficient, effective way to do this."

The success of Infravision’s involvement in the Site C project underscores our commitment to building power lines at scale through innovative solutions that combine technology with on-ground expertise. This project stands as a testament to what’s possible when tradition meets innovation, paving the way for a sustainable, low-carbon future in North America.