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Grid Skyway Initiative: Revolutionizing Drone Infrastructure in Japan

The Grid Skyway Limited Liability Partnership, headquartered in Minato, Tokyo and led by CEO Koichi Adachi, has announced a significant expansion of its collaboration. Joining the initiative are Tohoku Electric Power Network, based in Aoba, Sendai, and Kanagawa Electric Power Network located in Chuo, Tokyo. This brings the total to 15 major players in the utility sector, establishing a robust framework for drone-based infrastructure management across Japan.

This enhanced collaboration allows for a cohesive approach to utilizing airspace across the nation, from Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south, utilizing power lines as designated drone routes. Such operations align with the government-backed Digital Lifeline National Comprehensive Development Plan, signifying a monumental step towards the integration of drones in public infrastructure. The initiative also aims to connect with ongoing discussions regarding Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM) and drone route registration systems, focusing on various applications such as equipment inspections, disaster response, and broader logistics requirements.

Grid Skyway is set to play a crucial role in addressing pressing societal issues such as labor shortages due to an aging population and the increased frequency of natural disasters. Providing a secure air infrastructure will enable numerous businesses to leverage drone technology safely and efficiently.

Commercial Drone Services Launch and Future Expansion

Starting January 2025, Grid Skyway will roll out commercial drone flight services utilizing the route platform for Tokyo Electric Power Grid and Chugoku Electric Power Network. These services are designed for remote inspections of power equipment. So far, 4,600 km of preparatory work have been completed, specifically targeting regions in the Kanto and Chugoku areas, with plans for gradual service area expansion.

Moreover, the drone route platform’s applicability will extend beyond the electricity sector; collaboration with other infrastructural providers and owners of large-scale plants is in the works, significantly broadening the potential industry applications.

The benefits gained from the drone route established in the Chichibu area and Hamamatsu City, as part of the National Research and Development Agency's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) initiative, will facilitate the development of over 10,000 km of drone routes along power lines nationwide by 2027. The initiative is focused on three main operational pillars:

1. Expansion of countrywide standardized drone routes above power lines.
2. Investigation of drone applications in high-demand societal needs areas such as disaster response and logistics.
3. Coordination with various regulations and international standards for flight management systems set forth by the government.

Image of National Standard Drone Route Development

Visual representation of the planned drone routes across the country.

By emphasizing these strategic initiatives, Grid Skyway envisions an integrated, efficient, and widely-accepted drone infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of modern society.

Stakeholders and Responsibilities

The Grid Skyway initiative promises to reshape the landscape of aerial and ground infrastructural synergies in Japan. Stay tuned for more updates on this ambitious project by visiting the Grid Skyway website.

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Contact Information

Grid Skyway Limited Liability Partnership
Email: [email protected]
Tokyo Electric Power Grid
Secretariat and Risk Management Office
Phone: 03-6373-1111 (Representative Number)