How Green Grid Inc. Designs AI-Powered Grid Monitoring Hardware with SOLIDWORKS
See how Green Grid uses SOLIDWORKS for 3D modeling, thermal and airflow analysis, and enclosure optimization — turning napkin sketches into weatherproof, manufacturing-ready devices that help utilities shift from time-based to condition-based maintenance and prevent catastrophic, utility-ignited wildfires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Green Grid Inc. is a Silicon Valley startup that builds patented AI-powered hardware and software for electric utilities. Its iSIU® platform provides 24/7 remote monitoring of power lines and grid assets to detect risks before they cause outages or wildfires.
iSIU® (Instant Situational Insights for Utilities®) is Green Grid’s flagship Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) platform. Using edge computer vision, thermal imaging, weather sensors, and solar-powered cameras, it detects vegetation encroachment, loose or broken hardware, object contact, animal activity, ice buildup, and equipment failure in real time.
SOLIDWORKS is the foundation of Green Grid’s hardware development. The team uses it for 3D modeling, component packaging, thermal and airflow analysis, and enclosure optimization — modeling complete assemblies of cameras, sensors, connectivity, batteries, and weatherproof enclosures, and generating precise drawings for on-demand manufacturing.
Even with a modest 17-sensor initial deployment, iSIU® has delivered significant value. One utility expanded from a two-sensor pilot to full high-risk circuit coverage. Green Grid has won awards at DISTRIBUTECH and CEATI T&D 2025 and built an $80 million opportunity pipeline since the product launched in 2024.
Co-founder and CTO Jeff Pickles has used SOLIDWORKS since around 1998 for its intuitive, fast handling of complex assemblies. Green Grid also benefited from the SOLIDWORKS startup support program, which provided full FEA and CFD licenses early on, and has partnered with Hawk Ridge Systems for SOLIDWORKS support since its earliest days.
