Sharper Shape, a leader in T&D utility asset management and grid resiliency solutions, has entered into a five year software agreement with Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) for use of Sharper Shape’s software Cloud Optimised Remote Evaluation (CORE) to assist with utility asset management.
This agreement builds on a successful partnership dating back to 2019. PG&E began leveraging Sharper Shape’s cutting-edge software, CORE, in 2021 to enhance asset management and maintenance strategies.
Sharper Shape’s software enables PG&E to analyse LiDAR and RGB imagery remotely, allowing for intelligent, data-driven maintenance decisions without the need for extensive field visits. Since 2019, Sharper Shape has been collecting and processing high-quality LiDAR and RGB imagery for PG&E, creating a state-of-the-art digital twin of PG&E’s infrastructure. This digital twin, combined with Sharper CORE’s AI algorithms, helps utilities predict and prevent equipment failures and create fully prioritised asset management plans.
PG&E is utilising Sharper CORE’s Data Lake to scale access to cutting-edge remote sensing data and operationalise its application across various functions. Key benefits of CORE include:
- Minimising truck rolls: Reducing the need for field visits by optimising workflows related to pole loading calculations and the estimation and design of distribution assets.
- Ensuring compliance: Supporting adherence to internal standards and external regulations, including California’s GO95.
- Cataloguing historical network data: Integrating data collected over many years from multiple vendors and sources.
- Validating site accessibility: Supporting field operations and construction teams with remote data validation.
- Vegetation management and risk modelling: Leveraging data to predict and mitigate wildfire risks through advanced segmentation and tree species identification.
- Empowering data science: Providing critical data for the development of risk models aimed at enhancing wildfire prevention and response strategies.
“We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with PG&E through this long-term agreement,” said Kristy McDermott, Vice President of Sales of Sharper Shape Inc. “The innovative application of our CORE platform demonstrates the immense value of combining advanced AI, remote sensing data, and digital twin technology to create safer and more resilient utility infrastructure. Together with PG&E, we’re setting a new standard for asset intelligence and management.”
This collaboration reflects PG&E’s commitment to leveraging innovative technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability while addressing the challenges of climate change and evolving regulatory requirements.