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Energy Industry: Before and After the Application of Drones and Artificial Intelligence
The energy industry, like many others, has undergone profound transformations in recent decades. If in the past processes were mostly manual, requiring significant time and effort, today, automation and artificial intelligence (AI) have become major allies. But if there's one technology that has truly changed the game, it’s the use of drones—and their combination with AI takes it even further.
Before: The World of Inspections and Monitoring
Imagine an oil field or a wind farm just a few years ago. Routine inspections were carried out on foot, with technicians climbing wind turbine towers or conducting extensive field surveys. This was not only exhausting but also posed risks for workers and, of course, the contracting company. Data collection was often slow, costly, and inefficient, and decision-making was based on limited or outdated information.
After: The Power of Drones and AI
Today, drones have transformed how inspections and monitoring of energy infrastructures are conducted. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, thermal sensors, and other advanced IoT devices, drones can fly over vast areas and capture real-time data, which is then processed into actionable information. This has made inspections significantly faster, safer, and more precise.
However, what truly makes the difference is the integration of AI. It’s not just about obtaining images or data, but processing, analyzing, and instantly extracting valuable insights. AI can identify issues such as wind turbine failures, detect hotspots in solar panels, or even prevent potential malfunctions before they occur. This not only saves time but also prevents costly damages and extends the lifespan of assets.
“The energy industry has seen a before and after with the arrival of these technologies, and there’s no doubt that its future will be even brighter thanks to innovation and the ability to turn data into strategic decisions.”
Ian Bogado, CEO of Uali
Benefits for the Industry
With the use of drones and AI, the energy industry has achieved a significant reduction in operational costs. Inspections are now faster, meaning fewer production interruptions. Additionally, worker risks have been minimized by eliminating the need to climb tall structures or conduct hazardous fieldwork.
Another key advantage is efficiency. The data collected is more accurate and processed faster, allowing companies to make informed decisions swiftly. Not only that, but AI models can also predict potential failures in advance, enabling proactive maintenance and future risk prevention. And, of course, this technology contributes to global sustainability goals by enabling more efficient and environmentally friendly asset management.
At Uali, we combine drones, IoT, and artificial intelligence to provide precise and actionable information to the energy industry. We inspect the most critical assets, optimizing the decision-making process and generating a positive environmental impact. Learn more about us!
Amelia Balsamo
CTO