The Edison Electric Institute is partnering with a drone service company to prove the usefulness of the technology in inspecting the nation's electrical grid.

According to a news release, the association hopes the partnership with Sharper Shape will prove drones can be used to inspect power lines and other parts of the electrical grid without the presence of people on site. The company provides drone-based asset inspection services.

"The safe use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems can help electric power companies improve the reliability, resiliency and security of the power grid, which ultimately benefits electricity customers," EEI Director of Government Relations Chris Hickling said.

Several power companies already use drones for inspections, but under Federal Aviation Administration rules, the drones must be within line of sight of their operators. The association hopes to work with FAA to adopt new policies allowing drone flights beyond that range. http://bit.ly/1Sxbd5H

EEI is not the only association touting the potential benefits of drones for its industry. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials recently released a survey finding that 33 state departments of transportation have either used or tested drones to inspect bridges or assist with clearing vehicle crashes. http://bit.ly/1RyseKC

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