At GridFWD 2025 in Monterey, CA, we witnessed firsthand how Grid Innovation Pitch Competition can serve as a powerful catalyst for advances in grid modernization. Pitch Aeronautics, a startup focused on the intersection of AI and grid weather data, emerged as the winner among eight impressive competitors.
In a recent interview, co-founder Ian Gibson shared how their unique technology addresses critical challenges like wildfire mitigation and transmission capacity:
- The Technology: They deploy low-cost weather sensors directly onto energized power lines using drones.
- The AI Edge: This real-time field data is paired with AI modeling to create high-resolution, utility-specific forecasts.
- The Impact: By improving weather data accuracy, utilities can unlock additional line capacity and defer expensive capital projects, directly supporting energy affordability.
Beyond the win, Gibson highlighted the immense networking value of the event, noting that Pitch Aeronautics has gained more leads from GridFWD 2025 than any other industry event. The experience has already sparked potential channel partnerships, progress toward commercial sales with utilities, and significant investor interest.
Read the full interview on Grid Forward’s LinkedIn page >
