$169 billion Global cost of Power & Utilities sector losses related to network outages
clarity $609 million Revenue opportunities related to improving reliability of power supply systems
Leveraging drone technologies to secure utilities systems
Drones are poised to revolutionise the Power and Utilities (P&U) sector in Belgium. In a country with relatively high labour costs, drone technology can reduce expenditures while improving safety defef and efficiency.
The demand for renewable energy
Pressure on P&U is paving the way for the adoption of drone technology. Koen Hens, PwC Belgium Partner and Energy & Utilities Leader, explains: ‘’The P&U sector in Belgium and on a global scale is under unprecedented pressure to move away from fossil fuels while lowering energy prices. As organisations struggle to maintain profitability despite these challenges, the stage is set for the implementation of drones to cut costs by increasing efficiencies.’’
Putting drones to work
The potential of drones to streamline processes in the field is significant. They can live-stream video and capture high-resolution and thermal images of a facility, including hard-to-access areas that would otherwise be monitored by costly planes or helicopters. Drones can perform power plant inspections and maintenance that are difficult or even dangerous for humans, without the need to cut the power supply. These advantages are crucial in the face of tightening government regulations and financial incentives for companies that hit - or miss - reliability targets. Site monitoring by drones is quicker, safer and significantly more cost-effective.