In a move to modernize infrastructure monitoring, AP-Transco is turning to the skies. The power transmission corporation has launched a tender seeking drone service providers to patrol its vast network of transmission assets, aiming to harness technology for smarter, faster maintenance.

Key facts

  • Pilot project covers 23,000 towers and 8,500 km of 400 kV, 220 kV, and 132 kV lines
  • Duration: Two years
  • Visuals analyzed using AI and other tools
  • Inspired by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited's experience

Why drones?

Manual inspections of transmission infrastructure are time-consuming and can miss critical angles. Drones equipped with multi-sensor payloads—capturing high-resolution photos, thermal images, and videos—offer a comprehensive view. They can identify issues with bolts, angulars, earbands, and insulators that might otherwise go unnoticed, potentially affecting grid stability and incurring costs.

The AI advantage

Photos and visuals from drone sorties will be analyzed using Artificial Intelligence and other tools. AP-Transco is developing some AI tools in-house to keep expenses down. This analysis will enable targeted repairs, making maintenance more efficient and cost-effective.

“The drone patrolling will be extended to 33,000 kilometres of Transco lines, depending on the outcome of the pilot project,” AP-Transco Director (Grid, Transmission & Management) A.K.V. Bhaskar told The Hindu.

Looking ahead

If successful, the pilot could expand to cover AP-Transco’s entire network of 33,000 km of lines. The initiative draws on the experience of Power Grid Corporation of India Limited, which has already used drones for asset assessment. For now, the skies over Andhra Pradesh’s power lines are set to get busier—and smarter.