Key Takeaways
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Strategic Partnership: DJI, a global leader in drone technology, has partnered with Southern Company, the second-largest utility provider in the U.S., to explore the extensive applications of drone technology within the utility sector.
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Innovative Applications: The collaboration aims to utilize drones for essential tasks like utility inspections, repairs, and disaster recovery efforts, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
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Customized Solutions: As a Solution Development Partner, Southern Company will co-develop tailored drone solutions, responding to specific challenges in the utility landscape, including the needs showcased during major natural disasters.
- Advisory Council Membership: Southern Company joins the DJI Advisory Council, focusing on strategic drone integration across various industries to maximize the benefits of aerial technology.
DJI Teams Up with Southern Company to Advance Drone Use in Utilities
October 30, 2018 – DJI, widely recognized as a pioneer in civilian drone manufacturing and aerial imaging technology, has strengthened its ongoing partnership with Southern Company, the second-largest utility provider in the United States, by designating it as a Solution Development Partner. This strategic alliance is set to expand the utilization of drones in the utility sector, introducing innovative applications ranging from lifting heavy equipment to conducting routine maintenance inspections.
Jan Gasparic, Director of Strategic Partnerships at DJI, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, "As one of the nation’s largest utility providers, Southern Company has provided valuable insight into the application of drone technology for routine equipment inspection and maintenance as well as using it for disaster recovery efforts where saving time can mean saving lives. We look forward to working with Southern Company as we collaborate on new hardware and software solutions that will help make DJI drones an indispensable tool for the utilities industry."
Collaborative Efforts in Crisis Situations
The relationship will enable Southern Company to play a crucial role in the co-development and testing of customized drone solutions tailored to the utility industry. The two organizations have previously collaborated in response to significant challenges, such as Hurricane Florence and Hurricane Michael. Their innovative use of drones for line-pulling tasks to restore downed power lines and airlifting essential equipment like FAA tower beacons showcases the practical benefits of drone technology in real-world scenarios.
Participation in the DJI Advisory Council
In addition to their partnership, Southern Company will also join the DJI Advisory Council. This forum is dedicated to engaging with partners, end-users, and customers to strategize and develop a roadmap for drone technology adoption across industries that could greatly benefit from such advancements.
Dean Barefield, UAS Program Manager at Southern Company, expressed pride in this designation: "Southern Company is proud to be designated a Solution Development Partner with DJI. At Southern Company, we train and place UAS technology in the hands of employees throughout our many business units. Given the attractive price point and reliability, DJI remains the natural selection for this application, meeting our UAS needs." He further stated, "We believe that we have only begun to scratch the surface of UAS technology and are always looking for new and innovative ways to employ UAS on our system."
Seeking Advanced Drone Capabilities
Barefield also highlighted the need for smaller, more versatile drones that can operate effectively in challenging conditions. "DJI has heard our requests and is committed to meeting our industry needs," he noted, while also recognizing DJI’s responsiveness to important concerns regarding IT and cybersecurity requirements.
The partnership was announced during DJI’s AirWorks 2018 Conference, an annual event that gathers commercial drone users to explore advancements and inspire discussions on the future of drone applications in various sectors.
For more information about AirWorks 2018 and the emerging trends in drone technology, visit DJI’s AirWorks page.
