Technology at the service of the distribution grid

Preventive grid maintenance

Every summer, at e‑distribución we carry out a review and upgrade of the electricity distribution network.

The goal is to:

• Guarantee the safety of the facilities.
• Ensure the continuity of the supply.
• Improve service quality.

To achieve this, we use technologies that allow us to work more efficiently and accurately.

Technologies we use

We employ various technological solutions in grid maintenance, including:

• Drones with high-resolution cameras.
• Three-dimensional (3D) maps of the environment.
• Laser sensors.
• Thermographic inspections.

These technologies are applied to:

• High, medium, and low-voltage power lines.
• Substations.
• Distribution centres.
• Protection and telecontrol systems.
• Remote-controlled switching points.

The grid is reviewed regularly, and more exhaustively during the summer season.

Better access to infrastructure

Drones allow us to inspect hard-to-reach areas without having to interrupt the electricity supply.

With them, we can:

• Obtain detailed images of the infrastructure.
• Act quickly in emergency situations.
• Reduce risks to personnel.

In the future, these drones will incorporate more technologies, such as thermographic cameras.

Thermographic inspections

Currently, thermographic inspections of high and medium-voltage power lines are carried out using helicopters equipped with infrared cameras.

This system makes it possible to:

• Detect elements with abnormal temperatures.
• Record their location.
• Automatically trigger corrective actions.

Cleaning and forestry management

Another key part of maintenance is managing the vegetation in areas where power lines run.

The goal is to:

• Create safety corridors.
• Reduce the risk of fires.
• Protect the infrastructure.

These tasks include:

• Selective felling.
• Pruning.
• Cleaning and maintaining the surroundings.

LIDAR Technology

For these jobs, we use LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology.

This system:

• Generates three-dimensional maps of forests.
• Checks that safety distances are maintained.
• Identifies points where intervention is necessary.

LIDAR technology combines laser sensors and GPS, allowing for more precise and safer planning.

Our commitment

At e‑distribución, we invest continuously in innovative technologies to improve the distribution network.

Our commitment is clear:

• To guarantee safety.
• To maintain supply quality.
• To ensure the continuity of the service.