Case Study: illwerke vkw AG improves hydropower plant inspections with Energy Robotics

Hydropower Plant Inspection with Robots at Illwerke

The customer, illwerke vkw AG, faced the challenge of performing frequent and accurate inspections at its remote Obervermuntwerk II hydroelectric power plant in the Austrian Alps. The alpine location and harsh winter weather made these routine tasks difficult and prone to human error. The company partnered with Energy Robotics to pilot a solution using the Boston Dynamics Spot robot integrated with Energy Robotics' software.

Energy Robotics implemented an autonomous inspection solution where the robot navigated predefined routes, climbed stairs, and used its sensors to read measured values and capture thermal images. This collected data allowed for the early detection of anomalies. The solution enabled illwerke vkw to conduct remote inspections, reducing the need for employees to travel in adverse conditions and enhancing operational safety and efficiency.

illwerke vkw AG

Anja Fürst

illwerke vkw AG