Advanced grid inspection methodologies for enhancing electrical infrastructure in Greece

The electrical grid is vital to modern society as it enables the seamless distribution of electricity to power homes, businesses, and industries. However, it is a system that is constantly being modified: the energy demand is increasing due to population g rowth, urbanization and technological developments. Furthermore, there is a constant demand for grid expansion in order to install more RES units to meet the zero emission targets by 2050 and to address congestion issues. Therefore, the assurance of the reliability and resilience of the grid is of paramount importance and ensuring the grid's integrity and efficiency requires the implementation of advanced inspection methods of its components, capable of identifying vulnerabilities, mitigating risks, and optimizing performance. The combination of automated drone inspections, AI algorithms for fault detection and the tools for grid digitization offer a comprehensive solution to the inspections and maintenance problems, and a great opportunity for the Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator (HEDNO) to improve upon the current practices.