Enhancing Electrical Asset Management with Fugro ROAMES® Digital Twin Technology

Fugro partnered with Counties Energy, a New Zealand-based utility provider, to develop a digital twin of its electricity distribution network. By utilizing the Fugro ROAMES® platform and airborne LiDAR technology, Counties Energy's distribution network serving over 50,000 homes, farms, and businesses was digitized into a high-resolution model. This innovation allowed Counties Energy to achieve a comprehensive visualization of its network, enabling precise identification of vegetation encroachments, structural defects, and regulatory non-compliances.

The digital twin provided an operational advantage by minimizing the need for traditional, labor-intensive on-site inspections. It empowered Counties Energy to remotely inspect and assess asset conditions, analyze millions of data points, and prioritize risks across their network. This proactive approach facilitated targeted maintenance, optimizing resources and reducing operational costs. Moreover, the reduction of on-site personnel exposure enhanced safety, while the data-driven insights supported Counties Energy's commitment to reliability and sustainability.

This groundbreaking project not only streamlined Counties Energy’s asset management practices but also showcased the integration of cutting-edge geospatial technology in utility management.