29 March 2021

Using drones and AI to inspect Elia's high-voltage pylons

Drones will soon be helping us make sure the lights stay on in Belgium. They will be used to inspect high-voltage pylons.

Elia Group is constantly on the lookout for efficiency gains and new technologies – be it in terms of system operation, grid development, infrastructure or maintenance. The images drones take of high-voltage pylons will be processed using artificial intelligence and compiled into a status report that points out areas for repair in the pylons. The result is safer and more efficient inspections: the line remains in service and nobody has to climb the pylons.

  • Some 400 high-voltage pylons will be inspected by drones in 2021.
  • Up to 500 photos will be taken per pylon and then analysed using artificial intelligence.
  • Belgian companies are taking part in this innovative project.
  • At a later stage we will organise remote drone flights for line inspections


Marleen Vanhecke
Head of Communication & Reputation Elia Group
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