A new EU methane regulation makes it necessary: Since 2024, the EU has required regular and comprehensive inspections of pipelines for methane leaks. Until now, these inspections have been carried out using helicopters, a costly and unsustainable undertaking. The Hamburg-based startup Beagles Systems, which was accompanied and supported by Startup Port during its founding phase, presented its solution for inspecting pipelines using drones and laser technology at this year’s dronePORT CONNECT 2025.
Laser for measuring methane concentration
Beagle Systems equips multicopters with a laser-based instrument that reliably detects and measures the concentration of methane (CH4) from an altitude of 60 meters. The data collected is delivered to the customer as a complete report and with instructions on how to comply with EU regulations.
The drones can be deployed at the touch of a button from a desk, without any personnel on site. In addition to measuring the methane, the drones capture high-resolution images with geo-information, allowing them to keep a regular eye on the pipelines and react quickly in the event of any unwanted incidents.
Markets for drone-based services
Other systems and areas anywhere can also be easily monitored using the drone-based, sustainable and cost-efficient service. Think of power grids, agriculture or construction sites. The new EU regulation for pipeline operators has also enabled Beagle Systems to tap into this market with its solution.
dronePORT CONNECT is a specialist and networking event organized by the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA). It brings together experts from administration, industry and research to present current developments in the field of unmanned aerial systems. This year’s event focused on “Drone technology in the service of security and infrastructure”.
A report first appeared on Hamburg News.
