Testing New Sensor Technology to Improve Power Grid Reliability
At Gridguard, we are excited to partner with Glitre Nett in a pilot project that explores how sensor technology can enhance power grid maintenance. With over 70,000 poles in their high-voltage network, Glitre Nett faces the ongoing challenge of monitoring aging infrastructure and ensuring a stable power supply. Together, we are testing a smart sensor solution that provides real-time insights into pole conditions, helping to identify which poles need replacement before they become a risk.
Why This Matters
Maintaining power lines in remote areas is no easy task. The regional grid between Evje and Iveland, for example, was built in the 1960s and stretches across forests and wetlands. This makes the poles vulnerable to rot, wood-boring insects like carpenter ants, and even damage from woodpeckers. Traditionally, monitoring these poles requires manual inspections, which are time-consuming and costly.
By equipping each pole with our sensors, we can continuously collect and analyze data on their structural integrity. Using AI, we can detect early signs of decay and pinpoint potential issues before they lead to failures. This not only improves safety for the climbers but also ensures a more reliable power supply for thousands of customers.
Smarter Grid Maintenance
Glitre Nett has always prioritized balancing cost-effectiveness with reliability. Instead of replacing poles based on fixed timelines, predictive maintenance — powered by real-time data — allows them to extend the lifespan of existing infrastructure while making targeted replacements only when necessary.
This pilot project is part of a larger industry initiative where multiple grid operators are exploring how sensor technology can address different challenges. In addition to detecting rot and insect damage, our sensors can identify mechanical and electromagnetic faults and even track woodpecker activity, preventing further damage automatically.
A Safer and More Efficient Future
A damaged or rotten pole isn’t just a threat to power reliability — it’s also a serious safety risk for technicians working on the grid. By gaining better insights into pole conditions, we can help grid operators improve safety, reduce maintenance costs, and build a more resilient power infrastructure.
We look forward to continuing our work with Glitre Nett and expanding the use of smart sensor technology across the industry. By leveraging data-driven solutions, we can make power grids smarter, safer, and more sustainable for the future.
