PG&E operates one of the largest and most advanced drone-based equipment inspection programs in the world and recently became the first utility in California to begin conducting fully remote drone operations for electric system inspections.
PG&E is working in collaboration with San Mateo-based Skydio to integrate its Dock technology at 12 electric substations to augment current inspection programs and manual drone operations.
The benefit for customers is significant. The new drone capability automates data capture in the field, providing a triple advantage of increased system, operator, and community safety; reduced time and resources; and cost savings.