Western Power’s emergency response capabilities have been bolstered with the contracting of six new helicopters to the organisation’s fleet by the WA Government.
The helicopters – which are owned and operated by local business Corsaire Aviation – will launch from Jandakot and Geraldton and undertake aerial patrols, helping to identify faults along WA’s main electricity network and reduce the duration of power outages.
“This investment will support power reliability for all Western Australians throughout our State’s biggest electricity network, ensuring Western Power can rapidly respond when homes and businesses need it,” said Energy and Decarbonisation Minister, Amber-Jade Sanderson.
Emergency aerial fleets have previously been successfully used during emergencies, with up to four helicopters deployed per day late last year to patrol regional powerlines damaged by storms and bushfires.
Corsaire’s fleet will also assist in the general operation and maintenance of Western Power’s network, as well as the transport of personnel and equipment when required.
The WA Government invests about $1 billion annually in upgrading and maintaining Western Power’s network and is currently expanding its capacity through the Clean Energy Link Program.
