Led by Northpower’s Inspection Solutions team, the Network Drone Inspection Programme has redefined how overhead network condition data is captured, assessed, and applied. The programme combines ground-based inspection methods with advanced drone-based aerial surveys, including high-resolution visual and infrared (thermographic) imaging, to deliver a single, integrated view of asset condition.

This approach represents a step change from traditional five-year ground-only inspection cycles, which relied heavily on visual assessments with limited consistency in defect severity and constrained visibility of assets and their deterioration over time. The new inspection programme combined with a structured asset observation condition grade standard significantly improves the quality, consistency, and completeness of condition data used for network decision-making.

A key milestone in the programme was the in-field inspection of approximately 12,300 poles within a four-month period, equivalent to close to a full year of traditional field-based inspection activity.

The programme uses a co-ordinated inspection methodology that combines:

• ground-based inspections to assess pole base condition, subsidence, physical damage, and site safety risks, including low lying conductors that cannot be reliably identified from the air
• drone-based aerial inspections capturing high-resolution visual and infrared (thermal) imagery of poles, crossarms, conductors, and insulators from multiple angles
• thermographic analysis to identify potential electrical hotspots, deteriorating connections, and abnormal thermal behaviour in network components
• condition-based digital capture to standardise observations in the field for consistent downstream use.

This integrated approach enables a single field crew to complete multiple inspection activities in one site visit, reducing repeat access requirements, improving safety, and significantly increasing inspection efficiency and accuracy.

The introduction of drone-enabled inspection delivery has materially changed programme performance.

A core driver of the programme is improved safety performance. By reducing the reliance on close physical inspection of live assets, drone-enabled inspections have significantly reduced exposure to high-risk activities.

Safety is embedded through structured operating procedures, trained drone pilots, and co-ordinated ground and aerial workflows. The use of thermal and visual drone imaging also reduces the need for physical proximity to energised assets, further improving operational safety. Critical defects can be identified and escalated in near real time, improving responsiveness while maintaining strict safety controls.