Leveraging AI, Video, and GPS for Distribution Inspections

Electric utilities routinely inspect distribution networks to ensure safe and reliable operations, e.g., identifying damaged components, monitoring vegetation encroachment, and assessing the overall health of infrastructure. Unlike transmission systems, distribution networks typically have higher traffic density and a significantly larger number of utility poles, making aerial inspection methods, such as using helicopters or drones, impractical and often non-compliant with local traffic and airspace regulations. As a result, distribution line inspections remain largely manual. Inspectors typically walk or drive along utility routes, visually assessing each pole for signs of wear, damage, or anomalies. While these manual inspections can be effective in some respects, they are inherently…