Power substation systems convert high voltage to low voltage and ensure a continuous supply of electricity to even the remotest corners of the nation. But this continuous supply is sometimes broken due to the interference of birds with the transmission lines and equipment. Birds are attracted towards the power substations because of the heat produced from the substations, which leads to a discontinuity in power supply and it also poses a threat to the life of birds.

A recently published patent application from the Florida Power & Light Company discloses a bird deterrence system to counter this very problem. The system determines that a bird is approaching an electrical substation, or other electrical components like transformers using detection units including cameras, sonar, radar, etc. If a bird is found to be present near a sensitive area, then a drone is launched towards the bird.  The drone is flown following a flight path with no obstacles in between. The drone deters the bird from entering the sensitive area. Then the drone goes back to the home location.

This system will help to protect countless birds that meet a cruel fate by unknowingly engaging with electrical components. Additionally, the system will also protect the electrical components, and ensure continuity in power supply. We can only wait for how soon this system is employed by utility companies all over.

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