Tools | Hydropower goes robotic
AI and advanced robotics are helping to transform hydropower operations worldwide, boosting efficiency, safety, and renewable energy output
Above: Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot was deployed by EDP and Alisys to autonomously navigate a hydropower plant to perform inspections and support renewable energy operations
HYDROPOWER OPERATORS WORLDWIDE ARE increasingly turning to robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) to improve operational efficiency, reduce risks, and support the transition to renewable energy. From advanced quadrupedal robots in Europe to specialised inspection systems in China, these technologies are being deployed to handle tasks that are difficult, dangerous, or time-consuming for human operators.
Quadrupedal robotics in Spain EDP and Alisys worked together on a project applying
advanced quadrupedal robotics to hydropower plant operations. The initiative’s goal was to introduce a new class of robots, inspired by animal biomechanics, capable of performing tasks such as routine inspections, surveillance, and instrument readings autonomously. The project demonstrated that robotics can increase plant efficiency, maximize availability, and support reliable renewable electricity production. Boston Dynamics’ Spot (Enterprise version),
provided by Alisys in Spain and Portugal, was the platform used in the project. Equipped with artificial intelligence and advanced mobility, the robot was adapted to navigate the hydropower plant, perform routine low-value tasks, and allow operators to focus on higher-level maintenance and operational duties. A key component of the project was the
development of a computer vision system capable of reading both analog and digital instruments throughout the plant. This system was tested and validated at EDP’s Tanes hydropower plant in Asturias, Spain, which has a capacity of 124.17MW.
32 | October 2025 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
The project progressed through a structured sequence of stages. First, technical and functional requirements were defined. Second, sensors, communication systems, and power solutions were selected and integrated. Third, control and automation algorithms were developed to enable autonomous operation. Finally, the prototype system was built and tested – first in simulated environments at Alisys facilities, then in the real operational environment of the Tanes plant. The results demonstrated that the robot could
navigate autonomously, complete assigned missions, and reliably read a wide range of measurement instruments. Work on more complex tasks, such as detecting leaks and spills, is continuing, reflecting the potential for future applications. The project confirmed that quadrupedal robotics can
play a practical role in hydropower operations, improving efficiency, reliability, and safety while supporting the ongoing evolution of renewable energy infrastructure.
AI and robotics in Vattenfall
operations Similar applications of AI and robotics are underway at Vattenfall. At the Forsmark Nuclear Power Plant, Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot is performing tasks too hazardous for humans. Meanwhile, AI is being applied across the energy sector to analyse large datasets, detect structural issues, and improve operational predictions. These technologies are becoming integral to plant management and maintenance. Dag Wästlund, manager of the Data Science and AI Section at Vattenfall’s R&D department, leads a
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45
