FirstEnergy will share how it used truck-mounted LiDAR data to improve vegetation clearance calculations and asset visibility across transmission and distribution systems. In this pilot project, the team evaluated how LiDAR-derived 3D models compared to traditional fixed-wing imagery and explored how combining both datasets can improve vegetation encroachment analysis. Attendees will learn how LiDAR point cloud data was used to identify poles and wire locations, calculate vegetation clearances, and support additional use cases such as roadway crossing height validation. The session will also cover the strengths, limitations, and cost considerations of different data collection approaches.

Session Takeaways:
• How LiDAR improves asset location accuracy and vegetation analysis
• Lessons learned comparing LiDAR to aerial imagery
• Strategies for combining multiple data sources for right-of-way management
• Additional use cases enabled by 3D asset modeling