Robotics is now becoming an increasingly crucial tool in the energy and utility segment for keeping their operations functional and optimised, especially during events, such as the Covid-19 pandemic, when remote monitoring of power infrastructure with minimal operators on-site was made possible with the help of robots and drones.
Other than its applications across various segments, such as transmission and distribution, wind, solar, nuclear and thermal, robotics in the energy sector is expanding its presence in disruptive applications such as faster renewable energy installations, automated cable jointing for underground applications and revolutionising utility excavation systems.
Leading energy companies in robotics
Power utilities are increasingly using robotics and drones to handle the inspection of risky, time-consuming, and hard-to-reach assets, as well as maintaining those assets and providing automated cleaning solutions for solar PV panels and wind power blades. These applications of robots and drones are now becoming standard.
Leading adopters include the National Grid, Ontario Power Generation (OPG), Energie NB Power, Talen Energy, Con Edison, Southern Gas Networks (SGN), Hydro-Québec, Iberdrola and KEPCO.
Discover the leading robotics companies in the energy industry
Using its experience in the sector, Energy Monitor has listed some of the leading companies providing products and services related to robotics.
The information provided in the download document is drafted for power sector executives and technology leaders involved in power robotics solutions.
The download contains detailed information on suppliers and their product offerings, alongside contact details to aid purchasing or hiring decisions.
Amongst the leading suppliers of robotics in the energy sector are ABB, Sarcos Robotics, ANYbotics, Boston Dynamics, MiR, ULC technologies and PrecisionHawk.
Future of robotics in the energy sector
According to GlobalData forecasts, the global robotics industry was worth $45bn in 2020, and by 2030, it will have grown at a compound annual growth rate of 29% to $568bn. GlobalData expects every segment of the robotics market to grow over the next decade. Industrial robots will function as a growth driver as innovation in the segment will spill over to other areas.
For full details (including contact details) on the leading companies within this space, download the free Buyer’s Guide below:
Frequently asked questions
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How are robotics transforming the power sector?
Robotics are revolutionising the power sector by automating maintenance, inspections, and repairs of critical infrastructure, such as power grids, solar panels, and wind turbines. These technologies increase operational efficiency, reduce the need for human intervention in hazardous environments, and ensure faster response times during outages or failures. Additionally, robots and drones are being deployed for routine tasks like cleaning solar PV panels and maintaining wind turbine blades, helping improve energy output and reliability.
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What benefits do robotics offer in power grid management?
Robotics improve grid management by enabling remote monitoring and inspection of hard-to-reach equipment, reducing the need for manual checks. This leads to faster fault detection and repair, minimising downtime and increasing grid reliability. Robots also enhance safety by handling tasks in dangerous or inaccessible areas, such as high-voltage lines or underwater cables.
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How is robotics improving renewable energy operations?
In renewable energy, robotics are used for the automated cleaning of solar panels, reducing dust and debris that can lower efficiency. Drones are also deployed to inspect wind turbine blades for damage, allowing for preventive maintenance and extending the lifespan of renewable energy assets. By automating these tasks, robotics help maximise energy production and reduce operational costs.
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What challenges exist in implementing robotics in the power sector?
The primary challenges include high initial investment costs, technical integration with existing systems, and the need for specialised training to operate and maintain robotic systems. Additionally, ensuring that robotic technologies can withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures or heavy winds, is crucial for their effectiveness in the power sector.
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How do drones assist in maintaining power infrastructure?
Drones are used to inspect power lines, substations, and other critical infrastructure without interrupting operations. They can quickly identify issues such as equipment malfunctions, vegetation overgrowth, or structural damage. This reduces the time needed for inspections, lowers operational costs, and increases safety by reducing the need for human workers to enter potentially dangerous environments.
