

Business Challenge
Elia Group, a leading transmission system operator, sought to address overhead line interference caused by cranes and other equipment, which posed safety and operational risks. They needed a cost-effective geospatial solution to detect hazards and improve monitoring capabilities.
Benefits
Cost Savings: A more economical alternative to high-resolution optical data.
Improved Safety: Early detection of hazards like vegetation and crane encroachment.
Operational Efficiency: Tools to monitor critical transmission areas effectively.
“Woolpert’s guidance and seamless collaboration has been invaluable.”
Working With Woolpert
Woolpert’s collaborative approach ensured a smooth process from the start. They co-developed scripts and supported Elia’s independent expansion of the solution. “Woolpert’s expertise and seamless collaboration has been invaluable,” said William Van den Broeck, Innovation Consultant for Elia. Elia plans to test and scale the solution in 2025, leveraging the partnership to set a new standard in geospatial monitoring.
The Solution
Elia partnered with Woolpert Digital Innovations to implement Google Earth Engine (GEE) for geospatial monitoring. Using SAR data from Sentinel satellites, Woolpert helped develop a proof of concept to detect changes near overhead lines. Elia’s internal team integrated GEE into their Google Cloud project using custom applications to monitor areas for construction, vegetation, and flooding.