ideaForge Technology Ltd has signed a strategic MoU with Resonia Ltd (formerly Sterlite Grid 32 Ltd), to enable the adoption of advanced drone and robotics technologies in power transmission infrastructure projects across India.
This collaboration marks a pivotal step in modernizing how transmission towers and substations are surveyed, constructed, and maintained. By leveraging ideaForge’s proven UAV capabilities and Resonia’s execution leadership in timely completing complex power transmission projects, this partnership aims to accelerate deployment timelines, improve workforce safety, and enhance operational reliability – particularly in difficult terrains and high-risk environments. It also places a strong emphasis on capacity building, with ideaForge providing hands-on training, certification programs, and knowledge-sharing workshops to Resonia personnel.
This will ensure safe, effective drone operations and long-term sustainability. All UAV deployments under this collaboration will strictly adhere to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) norms and other applicable regulatory guidelines.
Drone-based solutions
Under the partnership, ideaForge will deliver specialized drone-based solutions for critical power sector applications, including GIS surveys, route planning, construction progress monitoring, and real-time asset inspection. ideaForge’s world-class UAVs,equipped with high-precision payloads like LiDAR, multispectral, and hyperspectral sensors, will deliver actionable insights for more efficient infrastructure planning and execution. In parallel, ideaForge will also develop and deploy specialised software for real-time monitoring and health assessment of power transmission assets to predict potential failures and enable predictive maintenance, further improving the safety and reliability of infrastructure.
Heavy-lift drones
A key innovation area in the engagement will be the use of heavy-lift drones to support material transport and wire stringing in transmission projects. Traditionally reliant on helicopters or extensive manual labor, these high-risk operations in challenging terrains will now benefit from drone-enabled automation – improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing safety. The partnership also includes a joint R&D roadmap to future-proof drone capabilities for the energy sector’s evolving needs and adapt cutting-edge solutions to on-ground challenges.
