CMP Launches Innovative Drone/AI Smart Grid Mapping Project

Aerial Image of a road lined with evergreen trees and a powerlines with a drone over them


CMP is surveying all its streetside distribution lines and equipment. For the first time, AI will be used to make the grid stronger and safer.

 

AUGUSTA, ME – March 31, 2025 – Central Maine Power (CMP), a subsidiary of Avangrid Inc., is using advanced technology in the air and on the ground to, build and plan the grid of tomorrow. Using special vehicles and drones, CMP crews are currently surveying all the company’s streetside distribution lines to detect possible risks, make necessary improvements, and take preventative actions to support reliability and safety of the grid.

 

The project includes vehicles with exterior cameras to take photos of overhead electric equipment. For the first time, with the help of innovative AI tools, the company will be able to more quickly assess images of more than 24,000 miles of line to detect utility equipment issues. When equipment issues are detected, crews will then deploy drones and personnel on the ground to review before taking the necessary steps to upgrade and repair grid infrastructure.

 

“Leveraging AI in this way for the first time and evolving our use of drones marks a transformative step for CMP. By capturing detailed, real-time visual maps of our entire grid, we're gaining an unprecedented, in-depth view of our infrastructure,” Stephanie Roper, Senior Director of Electric Operations for CMP said. “The operational efficiency we gain with this technology results in targeted decisions that ensure our customers have a safer, more resilient grid that is ready for extreme weather.”

 

As these surveys continue, CMP would like customers to be aware that:

  • Surveys will not require disruption of electricity service.
  • Surveys are strictly of utility equipment, not private property.
  • Surveys will not include customer attachments at homes or businesses.
  • Customers may notice photographers on the ground as well as drone operators working in our rights-of-way, in areas where it is difficult to photograph equipment from the road. All personnel are in clearly marked vehicles and will carry identification for community assurance. Drone flights are pre-planned, and our drone operators try to avoid flying over customers' homes and properties whenever possible.
  • If customers have any concerns, they are urged to call 800.750.4000 to speak with a CMP representative.

 

The project is expected to continue through the end of 2025 and will use vehicles, drones, and authorized personnel. Crews are currently working in the Alfred, Portland, Brunswick and Rockland areas. Work will continue in the Fairfield, Augusta, Lewiston, Bridgton, Farmington, Skowhegan and Dover communities over the summer.

 

Click here to download B/Roll of this survey work being conducted in the Brunswick area on 3/27/25. News media may use this footage rights-free.

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