MONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR POWER LINE STRUCTURES AND ENERGY HARVESTING

A monitoring system for a power line structure includes a system for harvesting electrical energy from electric fields emanating from the power line. The monitoring system includes a weather resistant enclosure configured to be mounted near the power line. The electrical energy harvesting system includes an electric field antenna configured to receive electric fields emanating from the power line, an electrical energy harvesting circuit mounted within the enclosure and an earth ground connector configured to couple the harvesting circuit to an earth ground connection by direct connection or via a capacitive structure. An energy storage device is also electrically coupled to the harvesting circuit. The monitoring system further includes a sensor system electrically coupled to the harvesting system. The sensor system is configured to sense a condition and transmit corresponding condition data.