PG&E gas monitoring vehicles cruise Ukiah, Hopland

PG&E vehicles mounted with gas-detection devices are surveying for gas leaks in Ukiah and Hopland.|
GLENDA ANDERSON
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

Ford Explorers with finely tuned roof-mounted gas sensors are patrolling the streets of Ukiah and Hopland this week as part of Pacific Gas and Electric Co.’s periodic gas line safety checkup.

The vehicles, which resemble Google Earth mapping vehicles, are methodically cruising natural gas distribution lines between Redwood Valley and Hopland between 1 and 6 a.m. in search of leaks, according to PG&E, a time of optimum atmospheric conditions and the least traffic.

The Picarro Inc. leak detection technology being utilized is 1,000 times more sensitive than most commercially available tools, according to PG&E, and detects the slightest trace of a natural gas leak.

PG&E plans to survey more than 31,000 miles of distribution line this year. The survey is part of the company’s five-year leak survey and maintenance program.

The last time a survey was conducted in Mendocino County was 2012. Santa Rosa will be surveyed in the near future.

For more information call 800-743-5000.

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