To overcome regulatory barriers, utilities must continue to deploy pilot programs demonstrating the benefits of these technologies, report finds

A new report from Navigant Research examines the use of drones and robotics for electric transmission and distribution (DRTD) operations, with global market forecasts for revenue, broken out by technology, application segment, and region, through 2026.

Drones and robotics technologies have the potential to revolutionize the way utilities interact with their transmission and distribution (T&D) assets and collect critical data. As pilot programs continue to drive regulatory change, and as emerging technologies advance, Navigant Research forecasts exponential growth in the hardware, software, and services segments of the drones and robotics for transmission and distribution (DRTD) market. Click to tweet: According to a new report from @NavigantRSRCH, the total market for all DRTD segments is expected to reach $13.2 billion by 2026.

“Navigant Research has identified three core drivers for change in utility operations: speed, savings, and safety,” says Michael Hartnack, research analyst with Navigant Research. “Robotics technology has the potential to deliver significant gains in all three of these areas, primarily via ground-based, line-suspended, and aerial (drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, or UAVs) innovations.”

According to the report, utilities should continue to deploy pilot programs that demonstrate the benefits of DTRD technology, as every successful pilot program leads to the creation of many more. The prevalence of these programs is expected to help to overcome the regulatory barriers slowing the market and eventually drive significant growth.

The report, Drones and Robotics for Transmission and Distribution Operations, analyzes the drivers, barriers, and regional and global trends affecting the deployment of robotics technology in electric T&D operations. The study outlines the financial, reliability, and efficiency market drivers for robotics technology while highlighting the technical and regulatory challenges that suppress its short-term penetration. Global market forecasts for DRTD revenue, broken out by technology and application segment and region, extend through 2026. The report also examines the key technologies related to robotics in utility operations, as well as the competitive landscape. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the Navigant Research website.

About Navigant Research

Navigant Research, the dedicated research arm of Navigant, provides market research and benchmarking services for rapidly changing and often highly regulated industries. In the energy sector, Navigant Research focuses on in-depth analysis and reporting about global clean technology markets. The team’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Energy Technologies, Utility Transformations, Transportation Efficiencies, and Buildings Innovations sectors. Additional information about Navigant Research can be found at www.navigantresearch.com.

About Navigant

Navigant Consulting, Inc. is a specialized, global professional services firm that helps clients take control of their future. Navigant’s professionals apply deep industry knowledge, substantive technical expertise, and an enterprising approach to help clients build, manage and/or protect their business interests. With a focus on markets and clients facing transformational change and significant regulatory or legal pressures, the Firm primarily serves clients in the healthcare, energy and financial services industries. Across a range of advisory, consulting, outsourcing, and technology/analytics services, Navigant’s practitioners bring sharp insight that pinpoints opportunities and delivers powerful results. More information about Navigant can be found at navigant.com.

* The information contained in this press release concerning the report, Drones and Robotics for Transmission and Distribution Operations, is a summary and reflects Navigant Research’s current expectations based on market data and trend analysis. Market predictions and expectations are inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from those contained in this press release or the report. Please refer to the full report for a complete understanding of the assumptions underlying the report’s conclusions and the methodologies used to create the report. Neither Navigant Research nor Navigant undertakes any obligation to update any of the information contained in this press release or the report.

Navigant ResearchLindsay Funicello-Paul, +1-781-270*-8456lindsay.funicello.paul@navigant.com