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Flying Drones to Increase Safety

Electrical Safety Drones

Our industry is always seeking innovative ways to reduce risks and hazards while also improving the reliability of our electric grid.

It’s not a bird…It’s not a plane…It’s a drone!

In 2015, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved the first energy company, ComEd, to operationally pilot unmanned aircraft systems. The ComEd program has successfully launched more than 250 drone flights, and it continues to expand. By 2020, ComEd anticipates having a fully operational drone program with expanded flight mission capabilities.

Exelon, one of Delta’s main customers, has also invested in the use of drones to raise their safety performance. Their mid-Atlantic utilities, including BGE and PECO, are developing pilot programs to incorporate drone technologies into their everyday operations.

Benefits of the Drone Program

Instead of having to climb tall structures or energized equipment to maintain power lines, workers can use drones to capture system images. The aerial perspective and high-resolution images from drones provide benefits such as:

  • Mitigating injury risk for line workers on dangerous terrain
  • Analyzing storm damage in locations that might be inaccessible
  • Minimizing planned power outages by capturing images of energized equipment while they are running

Technology Advancements for Utilities

With technology continuing to advance, drones can eventually replace other aerial imaging sources such as helicopters. Whereas helicopters might harm the surrounding environment due to their size and wind power, drones minimally impact the environment.

Utilities are also forming 3D maps with hyperspectral imaging and LiDAR technology. This allows them to assess potential risks of the local landscape and vegetation, helping to preserve natural habitats and species.

Delta is excited about our industry’s use of advance technologies to provide a safer environment for our workers and to produce energy more efficiently for our customers.

Delta’s New Office in Sparks, Maryland

In February 2019, Delta Utility Services, Inc., moved its office to Sparks, Maryland. The new office allows us to work together more efficiently and host customers more comfortably.

Delta Utility Services reception area

Spacious Layout

The new space features an open layout that accommodates our expanding company. With 3,000 square feet, the bigger office can fit our growing staff all on one floor. This allows us to enjoy a more welcoming, collaborative environment, with even better communication between our field and office staff.

Delta Utility Services conference room

Open Doors

“We’re excited that our new facility allows us to host events and meetings with other companies,” says Amy Burns.

The new office is conveniently located just 5 minutes north on York Road from our previous office on Shawan Road. When our field workers and customers come to visit, they’ll enjoy easier access and greater parking availability.

Delta Utility Service office Sparks Maryland

Come Visit Us

We look forward to seeing you in our new office soon!
10 Fila Way, Suite 200
Sparks, MD 21152

Delta Utility Services hats

National Electrical Safety Month

National Electrical Safety Month

Every day, safety is a top priority for electric utilities around the country. During the month of May in particular, our industry highlights the importance of safety precautions.

Creating Buzz About Electrical Safety

Utilities are using social media and community events to increase awareness about electrical safety. They educate customers about driving safely in work zones to protect linemen, not overloading outlets, and avoiding power lines. Children are also learning safety tips when linemen visit their schools to talk with them.

Electrical Safety During National Disasters

This campaign is led by the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI). The nonprofit organization is dedicated to promoting electrical safety in homes, schools, and offices. The 2019 theme is “Electrical Safety During National Disasters.” It’s an opportunity to focus on how to prepare for and rebuild after natural disasters.

ESFI provides important safety reminders such as:

  • Before the storm hits, make sure to charge all phones and other communication devices. Then, unplug all electronics, and move them as high as possible to avoid water damage from flooding.
  • Turn off the main power breaker feeding the home to prevent any surges to the wiring and equipment.
  • After the storm blows through, avoid flooded areas, as they may be electrified.
  • Do not use any electrical equipment or electronics if they’ve been submerged.
  • If you encounter a fallen power line outside, stay at least 35 feet away.

Delta Holds A+ Rating in Safety

At Delta Utility Services, our experienced crews not only provide superior workmanship, but also succeed in maintaining an impeccable safety record. We proudly hold an “A+” rating with ISNetworld.

Benefits of Digital Substations

Delta Utility Digital Substation

Digital substations are an example of smart grid technologies that give utilities greater flexibility and adaptability.

Consider some of the benefits of building a new digital substation or upgrading an existing substation.

  • Increased capacity and operation efficiency
  • Improved resiliency and safety
  • Expedited design modifications to accommodate new resources
  • Enhanced cybersecurity

Additionally, digital substations have reduced material and installation costs. They also leave a smaller environmental footprint.

Substation Expertise

Delta specializes in turnkey substation construction and smart grid technologies. We pride ourselves in our ability to strategically plan and execute a project successfully on time and within budget. By commissioning digital substations, we help our customers reap the benefits of modernized grid technology.

Delta is MWMCA’s Women Business Enterprise of the Year

Delta Utility Services, Inc., was proud to be honored at MWMCA’s 16th Annual 2019 Spring Breakfast Meeting/Business Showcase Expo. This event was held on May 10, 2019, from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm at Martin’s West in Baltimore, Maryland.

2019 MWMCA Delta award

“We’re thrilled to be named the Women Business Enterprise of the Year for 2019,” says Amy Burns, Delta’s President. “This award acknowledges the success that Delta has developed since 2003, and it reflects our commitment to providing superior quality utility work.”

2019 MWMCA Delta award

BGE Keynote

Considering the long-standing relationship that we’ve developed with BGE, we were especially excited about this year’s keynote speaker. Calvin G. Butler, Jr., is the CEO of Baltimore Gas and Electric Company, the nation’s first gas utility. Butler oversees safety, reliability, customer service, financial performance and BGE’s commitment to creating an inclusive culture.

2019 MWMCA Delta award

2019 MWMCA Delta award

Awards and Networking

We enjoyed seeing our industry colleagues at this event. The business showcase expo featured both an Awards Program and Matchmaking Meeting Sessions, during which small business representatives could meet with prime firms privately for up to 10 minutes. Participating companies included prime contractors, utility companies, and government entities.

2019 MWMCA Delta award

2019 MWMCA Delta award

About MWMCA

This annual event is hosted by Md. Washington Minority Companies Association (MWMCA), which originated in 2002 to advocate for minority and women construction trade contractors. MWMCA has a unique offering of services with one mission in mind, “Connecting Large & Small Businesses to Work Together.”

View honoree list (PDF, 1 page)

Maryland Ranks Third in Nation for Grid Modernization

Delta Utility Maryland Smart Grid

Exelon’s smart grid initiatives have helped propel Maryland into the top three of the 2018 Grid Modernization Index (GMI). The GMI evaluates and ranks states based on their progress in modernizing their electric systems with smart grid technologies.

Maryland is served by three Exelon utilities: BGE, Delmarva Power, and Pepco. These utilities have greatly led to the state’s recognition for grid modernization. Efforts in Maryland include:

  • strong smart meter deployment
  • high level of customer engagement through energy efficiency and demand response programs
  • continued investments in the local energy grid to enhance resiliency and reliability
  • ongoing efforts to plan for the future energy grid, including electric vehicles, battery storage and distributed generation

Smart Grids in Maryland

Delta is proud to work closely with BGE in Maryland to modernize our state’s electric systems with smart grids. Our work provides customers with greater value by increasing their control over energy use and enhancing energy reliability. Contact us to learn more about our smart grid services in Maryland.

Global Smart Gird Market to Reach $86.6 Billion by 2024

Delta Utility Smart Grid

North America is a global leader in implementing smart grids, thanks to our rapid adoption of advanced technologies and investments by regional governments.

According to a report published by Research Cosmos, the global smart grid market is poised to touch $86.6 billion by 2024. In 2015 the market was valued at $32.4 billion. During the forecast period of 2016 to 2024, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.15%.

Delta Utility Smart Grid Global Market graph

Smart Grid Installation

Delta is one of the leading utility service providers that installs smart grids. We are proud to be in an industry that is projected to have such enormous growth. We are committed to staying on the cutting edge of the latest technologies and providing people with energy as efficiently as possible. Contact us for more information about our services in the smart grid market.

Upgrading to Smart Grid Technology

Delta Utility Smart Grid

These days, American cities, companies, and residents are embracing renewable energy options. More rooftops are adorned with solar panels. More landscapes are dotted with windmills.

However, in order to fully integrate these renewable energy resources, the power grid that supports them needs to be upgraded.

Conventional grids were designed to deliver electricity one way—from the power plant to the consumer. They weren’t planned to accommodate small generators such as rooftop solar panels. Our nation’s grids need to be upgraded with a smarter operating system that efficiently manages these renewable energy resources.

Smart Grids

What are some key characteristics of a modern smart grid?

  • Distribution automation
  • A network that allows a two-way flow of electricity
  • AI that provides self-adjustment, contingency planning, and remote operation

Delta Delivers a Smarter Grid

Delta specializes in smart grid services. We install computer systems and sensors that deliver real-time data and use AI to make instant self-adjustments as needed. For example, if a tree were to fall down and take out a power line, the computer can switch instantly on its own to another power line. This provides uninterrupted electricity to the consumers and saves linemen from unnecessary labor.

The work we do with smart grids provides the infrastructure for electricity to be delivered as efficiently and consistently as possible. It is also vital to helping us leverage the full potential of renewable energy resources.