Case Study: Owatonna Public Utilities transforms electric grid management with EagleView imagery

Imagery Helps to Make Sense of Overhead Power Lines

Owatonna Public Utilities (OPU) faced a challenge with outdated CAD data for its electric grid, which was causing safety concerns and inefficiencies. The Minnesota-based utility needed to convert this data into a dynamic GIS system. To overcome this, OPU integrated EagleView’s aerial imagery into its workflow to gain the accurate insights required for the project without relying on traditional, time-consuming field checks.

By using EagleView’s imagery and CONNECTExplorer platform, OPU was able to verify asset connectivity and location directly from the desktop. This solution eliminated manual field visits and enabled the utility to digitally verify over 1,100 poles and hundreds of miles of line. The project resulted in substantial time savings, provided future-ready data for operational flexibility, and transformed the utility's grid management capabilities.

Owatonna Public Utilities

Katherine Meixell

GIS Technician