Buncombe County to Use 25K Grant for Storm Preparedness Drone

Buncombe County --  August 6, 2025: Buncombe County is set to enhance its emergency response capabilities thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation.

On Tuesday night, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the acceptance of the funding, which will be used to acquire a storm preparedness drone for Buncombe County Emergency Services.

The grant is part of the Duke Energy Foundation's "Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO)" grant program, a broader initiative demonstrating the energy provider's commitment to bolstering storm readiness across its service areas. In 2025 alone, Duke Energy dedicated $500,000 to the HERO program in North Carolina, distributing grants of up to $25,000 to 20 deserving government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

The HERO grants are strategically designed to empower local emergency responders with the crucial resources needed to effectively prepare for and respond to severe weather events. This includes funding for essential equipment, specialized training programs for first responders, and the development of robust community education initiatives.

For Buncombe County, the acquisition of a storm preparedness drone marks a significant step forward in its emergency management strategy. These unmanned aerial vehicles offer a multitude of benefits during and after severe weather. They can provide rapid and comprehensive damage assessments, locate individuals who may be missing or stranded, and survey areas rendered unsafe or inaccessible for traditional ground teams. This aerial perspective will allow emergency services to make more informed decisions, allocate resources efficiently, and ultimately improve response times.

Buncombe County joins a growing number of communities recognizing the value of drone technology in emergency management. Other organizations, such as the North Spartanburg Fire District in South Carolina, have also utilized HERO grants to acquire similar drones capable of delivering critical supplies even before rescue personnel can reach those in need.

The Duke Energy Foundation's HERO grant program underscores a sustained commitment to public safety. Over the past five years, the Foundation has invested millions of dollars in emergency preparedness initiatives across North Carolina and other states, recognizing the vital role local organizations play in ensuring community resilience in the face of natural disasters.

The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners expressed their gratitude for the generous grant, highlighting the positive impact the drone will have on the safety and well-being of county residents during severe weather events. This new technology will undoubtedly enhance the capabilities of Buncombe County Emergency Services, allowing them to better protect the community when it matters most.

WNCTimes

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