OUC’s drone team, pictured from left to right: Rubin York, Project Research Engineer; Maguire Mulligan, Research Engineer; Karen Keenan, Research Engineer; Tyler McKinnon, Data Analyst.
As a drone pilot and research engineer at OUC, Maguire Mulligan has seen firsthand how drone technology is transforming the way the utility handles post-storm damage assessments, infrastructure and facility inspections and other essential tasks. What once required employees to enter hazardous environments can now be done more safely, efficiently and accurately from the sky.
During Hurricane Milton in 2024, drones proved invaluable. They helped guide crews directly to the most critical trouble spots, enabling faster assessments, speeding up power restoration and reducing risks for field restoration teams.
From above, drones provide real-time, high-resolution views of downed lines, damaged poles and compromised equipment. This aerial perspective allows teams to prioritize repairs without stepping into unsafe areas. With thermal imaging capabilities, drones also can detect if a power line is energized, information which is crucial for safe and efficient restoration work.
OUC formally launched the drone team in 2023. Today, the program includes four FAA-certified pilots and a fleet of seven drones and has quickly become a vital tool for maintaining reliable and resilient electric service.
Beyond storm response, drones are reshaping routine operations. They can inspect hard-to-reach areas of large facilities in minutes – tasks that previously required weeks of planning and the construction of scaffolding. Thermal imaging also helps identify malfunctioning panels across solar arrays that span hundreds of acres. And as part of OUC’s Avian Protection Program, drones assist with inspecting bird nests on power poles and other structures, supporting environmental stewardship.
With these capabilities, OUC is redefining how it prepares for storms, responds to emergencies and evaluates critical assets – all while keeping employees out of harm’s way.
“I see the drone program growing and thriving,” said Mulligan. “I see them being the source of historical information about our distribution system and they will do a great job taking care of our critical infrastructure.
