Revolutionizing Renewable Energy Construction: Robots Like CivDot Boost Efficiency on Solar Farms
In the realm of private renewable energy projects, advancements and construction continue unabated despite a decline in government support. Innovative technology is playing a significant role in streamlining these construction processes.
One such example can be found in solar farms, where meticulous planning, extensive surveying, and labor-intensive work are the norm. However, robots are now stepping into the fray.
CivDot, a four-wheeled robot developed by Civ Robotics based in California, is revolutionizing the sector. This machine boasts an impressive capacity to mark up to 3,000 layout points per day and maintains an accuracy of 8 millimeters. Its ability to navigate rough terrains and endure harsh weather conditions makes it a valuable asset on solar projects.
Tom Yeshurun, CEO of Civ Robotics, emphasizes the company’s unique technology: “Our core strength lies in navigation and geospatial capabilities, enabling precise marking of coordinates within a quarter inch, even in uneven terrains, outdoor surfaces, and desert landscapes.”
The data required for manual surveying is digitized and input into Civ software. Operators select the areas to be marked, and the robot takes care of the rest, thereby saving both time and resources.
Yeshurun highlighted the financial implications: “Manual surveying equipment typically requires three land surveying handheld receivers for three crews. The cost of leasing our machines in the field equals this expense alone, with additional labor savings serving as an added benefit.”
Civ Robotics has deployed over 100 of these robots primarily in the renewable energy sector but also in oil and gas operations. They are currently collaborating with Bechtel Corporation on various solar projects.
Kelley Brown, vice president at Bechtel, noted their experience using the robot: “Previously, we’d dispatch highly-skilled field engineers who could mark approximately 250 to 350 piles per day. With CivDot, we are now able to achieve around 1250 marks per day.”
Brown also shared experiences of using the robot in challenging terrains such as muddy fields in Texas and deserts in Nevada: “The robot’s functionality takes into account factors like tire selection, clearance requirements, and battery swaps, ensuring it can navigate various solar field conditions effectively.”
Civ Robotics has received backing from Alleycorp, FF Venture Capital, Bobcat Company, Newfund Capital, Trimble Ventures, and Converge. The company has secured a total of $12.5 million in venture capital funding to date.
While there are other robotic solutions for markings, the competition predominantly focuses on highways and sports fields. Yeshurun emphasizes that these competitors struggle to handle the terrains encountered in the expanding solar industry.