Drones revolutionize energy supply completely

Experts also expect an upswing for mobile technologies in the energy supply sector. The energy sectors are driven by growth markets in China and India. According to reports, their power transmission networks will grow to an extent of 6.8 million kilometers (by 2020).

Regulators are therefore increasingly concerned about grid security and are introducing penalties and incentives to reduce downtime. Each year, the energy industry already loses $169 billion due to grid outages and forced shutdowns.

Increasing energy demand

"On the cusp of a digital revolution, the energy supply industry is facing numerous new challenges. Increasing market pressure and growing energy demands are forcing companies around the world to look for new ways to remain profitable. Drones are taking on an increasingly important role in ensuring the generation, transmission and distribution of energy," says Michael Sponring, Territory Leader Power & Utilities at PwC Austria.

Tree pruning drones and co

For most utilities, according to the PwC experts, it is primarily the control of plant growth and tree pruning in the vicinity of power lines that represent the largest single expense in maintenance costs. Tree pruning drones can help increase efficiency here, while also providing data that can be used to anticipate and prevent damage from falling trees.

"The use of drone technology to obtain various data on power plants, substations or high-voltage lines is increasingly contributing to the transformation of the entire energy supply industry. Not only can drones collect standardized data in a more efficient way, but unlike manned aircraft, they do so without endangering human life," Sponring concludes.

More details on the report "Clarity from above - Leveraging drone technologies to secure utilities systems". here