Multiple outlets including Hawaii News Now and Maui Now report that Hawaiian Electric will deploy drones throughout October to inspect power lines, poles, and electrical equipment in wildfire-risk areas across Maui and Lanai. The aerial surveys are aimed at identifying potential hazards before they escalate, as part of HECO’s broader wildfire safety strategy. No power interruptions are expected during the inspections.
- Inspections run October 1–31, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting
- Target areas include Lanai City, Wailuku, Kahului, Kihei, Wailea, Haiku, and communities along Hana Highway including Huelo, Keanae, Wailua, and Nahiku
- Hawaiian Electric has contracted ProEnergy to conduct drone flights alongside HECO staff
- Personnel will drive marked HECO or ProEnergy vehicles and carry identification badges; drone operators wear ProEnergy-branded hard hats and safety vests
- Inspections focus on poles and overhead lines only — crews will not request entry into homes or businesses
- Workers may enter private property such as yards to access utility poles, and will announce their presence before doing so
- Electric service will not be interrupted during the flights
- The drone program operates in full compliance with Federal Aviation Administration regulations (Maui Now)
- Contact HECO at (808) 871-9777 weekdays 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. or ProEnergy at (442) 445-9292 with questions
Sources
- Hawaii News Now: HECO to deploy drones for wildfire risk inspections across Maui, Lanai
- Maui Now: Drone inspections support wildfire safety efforts across Maui County
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