TasNetworks has launched a public information initiative to highlight the benefits and safeguards associated with its drone-based asset inspections, following community concerns over aerial surveillance near residential areas.
The 12-month rolling campaign, titled ‘Quiet, Fast and Safe’, aims to educate Tasmanians about the increased use of drones to inspect electricity infrastructure. Drones offer a quieter, safer, and more efficient alternative to helicopters and have saved the utility company more than $500,000 annually—approximately half the previous cost of aerial inspections.
Letter to the Editor
“Drones have proved very successful in reducing noise and disruption—especially close to people’s homes and livestock,” said TasNetworks Chief Executive Officer Seàn McGoldrick. “We go airborne to help limit power outages and prevent bushfires.”
The campaign comes as Fulcrum Robotics, TasNetworks’ contracted drone operator, surpasses 120,000 pole inspections since April 2023. These operations are conducted under strict Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) guidelines and in compliance with stringent privacy laws. Despite these safeguards, the growing use of drones has prompted apprehension among some community members, particularly over low-flying operations near private property.
“But we understand that some people aren’t used to drones flying low near their property,” said Mr McGoldrick. “To put their minds at ease, we’re keen to emphasise how safe they are, and how privacy’s protected.”
The company stressed that drone technology allows for closer, more detailed inspection of infrastructure, often speeding up the process while minimising disruption. Unlike helicopters, drones operate with significantly less noise and present fewer safety risks for workers and the public.
“Tasmanians need electricity that’s safe, clean, reliable and affordable,” Mr McGoldrick said. “We look forward to having a conversation via ‘Quiet, Fast and Safe’, so that all customers can relax about nearby drone inspections, and understand that we’re using them to ultimately save customers money and disruption, while reducing the likelihood and length of future outages.”
As part of its standard practice, TasNetworks provides advance notice to customers in areas scheduled for aerial inspections, whether by drone, helicopter, or both. The company also urges the public not to approach drone pilots during operations, citing the need for high levels of concentration during flights.
