Our History
A Legacy of Innovation in Infrastructure
From pioneering LiDAR applications on the UK electricity network to delivering advanced digital solutions for utilities around the world, NM Group’s history has been defined by innovation, technical excellence and a commitment to solving complex infrastructure challenges.
Over 20+ years, the company has evolved from a National Grid subsidiary into a global provider of LiDAR, geospatial intelligence and digital asset management solutions, helping network operators improve safety, resilience and operational performance.
-
Founded within National Grid
Network Mapping was founded in 2001 as a wholly owned subsidiary of National Grid, with a clear mission: to create a complete, accurate digital record of the UK’s electricity network – improving safety, reliability, and asset performance.
Early LiDAR trials proved aerial surveying was faster, more objective, and accurate enough for advanced powerline modelling.
-
2002 - 2007
From Innovation to Industry Standard
Following early LiDAR trials, Network Mapping went on to survey the entire National Grid transmission network—delivering measurable improvements in safety and performance. This period also saw the technology demonstrated to utilities globally, proving its effectiveness across different environments, alongside the creation of a full PLS-CADD digital model of the UK network.
-
Independence & Expansion
In 2007, NM Group became an independent company – expanding its LiDAR and powerline modelling expertise across transmission and distribution networks worldwide.
-
US Office Established
NM Group established its US office in Reno, Nevada supporting utilities including National Grid US and marking the beginning of its expansion into the North American market.
-
2012 - 2014
International Expansion & Rail Delivery
Between 2012 and 2014, NM Group expanded into Australia and Canada, while successfully surveying the entire UK rail network—demonstrating the versatility of its LiDAR and modelling capabilities across new markets and sectors.
-
Rebrand to NM Group & Platform Launch
The Network Mapping companies were unified under NM Group, alongside the launch of Caydence® our 3D asset management and analytics platform.
-
2015 – 2016
Major UK Distribution Contracts
NM Group was awarded the UK’s first network-wide distribution LiDAR surveys, working with UK Power Networks and SSE – demonstrating its capability to deliver at scale across complex distribution networks.
-
10 Years Independent
Celebrated 10 years as an independent company, continuing to pioneer data-driven approaches to optimise electricity network performance.
-
2018–2020
Advancing Vegetation & Risk Analytics
Expanded capabilities in vegetation management and risk modelling, supporting utilities in improving network resilience and addressing increasing risks such as wildfire, driven by drier conditions in many regions.
-
2022–Present
Cloud, Automation, AI & Digital Twins
Advancing cloud-based solutions through Caydence®, combining LiDAR, geospatial data, automation and AI to support remote workflows and digital twins – helping utilities improve safety, resilience and performance across transmission and distribution networks.
Get in Touch
Ready to gain full visibility of your network?
Our specialists deliver accurate mapping and modelling to help you manage, maintain, and scale your infrastructure with confidence.