Energy Drone & Robotics Best of 2025…So Far
/We’re only halfway through 2025, but Energy Drone & Robotics has already covered a powerhouse lineup of innovation, collaboration, and real-world results. From autonomous inspections to logistics breakthroughs, this year’s standout stories reveal a sector rapidly maturing—and scaling.
Below are four of our top articles of the year so far, featuring some of the most impactful advancements shaping the future of energy operations. Whether you’re leading a drone program or just watching the space, these stories offer valuable insights into what’s working, what’s next, and how to stay ahead.
1. PG&E’s Path to Safer Skies: Automating BVLOS Compliance with AirData
PG&E continues to raise the bar for utility drone programs with its sophisticated use of beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations. Working with AirData, the utility has automated flight logging, maintenance tracking, and FAA compliance across its vast network.
By centralizing their data and streamlining documentation, PG&E can focus on flying safe, responsive missions—while scaling responsibly. Their model sets a precedent for how to operationalize BVLOS flights at scale, while staying audit-ready.
Why it matters: BVLOS operations are key to inspecting large infrastructure, and PG&E shows how automation can make them safer, smarter, and FAA-compliant.
2. Heavy-Lift Cargo Drones Are Transforming Energy Operations
The dream of drones delivering critical cargo to offshore rigs and remote wind farms is no longer sci-fi—it’s here. This article dives into how Ørsted, Equinor, Terra Drone, Skyways and others are deploying heavy-lift drones to solve real-world logistics problems.
The rise of drones like Pyka’s Pelican Cargo and Dronamics’ Black Swan is changing how the industry thinks about middle-mile deliveries, emergency response, and carbon-conscious operations. And with new FAA BVLOS exemptions rolling in, the regulatory runway is opening up fast.
Why it matters: These aircraft are reducing costs, emissions, and response times while boosting safety and operational continuity in hard-to-reach places.
👉 Explore the future of heavy-lift drones
3. Chevron + Percepto: The Autonomous Inspection Pilot Making Waves
In a standout article from DRONELIFE, we saw what’s possible for Chevron and Percepto when AI-powered drones meet rugged oilfield conditions. With drones deployed in West Texas and Colorado, Chevron is using Percepto’s drone-in-a-box solution for BVLOS autonomous inspections—from leak detection to visual monitoring.
From Dronelife
The system’s automation and AI capabilities are not just removing inspectors from hazardous environments—they’re helping Chevron scale smarter and faster across its vast network.
Why it matters: Autonomous drone inspection isn’t just a concept—it’s a real, working program with promising results. Chevron’s pilot project could define the next standard for industrial inspection.
👉 See the full article on DRONELIFE
4. Drone Case Study Roundup
We pulled together some of the year’s most impactful case studies to date, and the common thread is clear: drones and robotics aren’t hype—they’re delivering ROI.
Shell: Set a record with 320 miles of pipeline inspected in one day using BVLOS flights
Turner Industries: Cut inspection costs by 60% using Elios 3 drones, eliminating the need for scaffolding or rope access
Southern Company: Earned a historic FAA Part 91 BVLOS waiver to inspect infrastructure with fewer human observers
Cognite and Equinor: Showcased robotic inspections and digital twins that save millions and improve safety at scale
Why it matters: These stories show drones and robotics moving from pilot projects to powerful business enablers across energy, utilities, and heavy industry.
What These Stories Say About the Industry in 2025
If there’s a single takeaway from the first half of 2025, it’s this: energy companies are no longer asking if drones and robotics fit into their operations—they’re scaling them as essential infrastructure.
BVLOS is the new frontier—but only for those ready to automate data and maintenance workflows.
Heavy-lift drones are unlocking new logistics models that reduce cost, risk, and emissions.
AI-driven inspection and monitoring is here, making teams more effective and assets more secure.
Together, these stories point to a smarter, safer, and more scalable energy sector.
