Digitalisation of electrical structures using BIM technology
Iberdrola is leading the digitalisation of Spain’s power grid
i-DE, Iberdrola’s electricity distribution company in Spain, is a global pioneer in implementing the full BIM workflow for the design and construction of power lines and substations.
32/20 kV substation transformer information.
The transition from traditional technologies to this digital data-based and collaborative system represents a major leap in the management of electricity infrastructure, positioning i-DE as a benchmark in innovation and competitiveness in the sector.
In the “era of electricity”, power grids must become both greater and smarter. The necessary increase in investment in networks must go hand in hand with greater efficiency, doing things right, and improving the quality of supply – and digitalisation will play a key role in achieving that.
Through the integration and unification of information via the Building Information Modelling (BIM) digital model, Iberdrola’s distributor will have access, from the earliest stages of a project, to more accurate, automated and efficient engineering. This allows for more optimised construction times and costs across its electricity infrastructure in Spain, which currently includes more than 266,000 kilometres of distribution lines, more than 99,000 transformer stations and 1,185 substations, serving 11.5 million customers.
Advantages of using AI
Thanks to i-DE’s development of an intelligent object catalogue within the BIM environment and an integrated data model, the company can now access all standardised geometric representation parameters and technical information for any asset throughout its entire lifecycle. Moreover, this tool integrates with other i-DE management systems such as Genesis and Gamad, ensuring consistency and efficient data management.
By working with integrated 3D digital models, BIM enables all teams – engineers, designers and builders – to visualise a complete project before construction begins, improving coordination across disciplines during the design stage, identifying potential conflicts in advance and preventing errors or rework.
Modelo digital del progreso del trabajo y el control de calidad.
Línea de doble circuito de 132 kV, implementación e interferencias de campo.
The BIM ecosystem implemented at i-DE also opens up an entirely new way of working, facilitating project planning and progress tracking, automatic cost calculations, accurate material and budget estimations, interference control, automation of safety distance calculations, and subsequent asset management through digital twins.
Efficiency and sustainability
As a result, i-DE will be able to deliver substation and high-voltage power line projects with higher quality, lower risk of design or construction errors, and improved traceability throughout their lifecycle.
Additionally, the digitalisation of the entire process will prepare the system to evolve and incorporate the latest technological advancements, such as the use of artificial intelligence.
Ultimately, this process optimisation supports Iberdrola’s commitment to sustainability by enabling more efficient resource management and reducing the carbon footprint of construction processes.