The current pilot project, Scale Up O&M, is being tested at the Cruz de Hierro/Villacastín solar park. It focuses on solar plants aiming to test technological solutions that enhance asset operation and maintenance efficiency.
“The idea is to have about 25 plants testing this type of solution by next year,” stated the project leader, emphasizing that while the project is in its early stages, it has global aspirations.
The primary testing is expected to take place in Europe, but the group is also exploring robotization solutions in Brazil and Singapore. “The United States is a critical region for us, so we are examining this issue comprehensively across the group,” she noted.
The investment, funded by EDP’s own resources, centers on a data collection and processing platform that uses artificial intelligence. This technology provides instructions to robots tasked with panel cleaning, vegetation control, or thermal inspections by drone.
According to the administrator, these solutions can lead to significant operational savings. “We are talking about a reduction of up to 80%, but on a cost category that represents 20% of a solar park’s expenses,” she explained, adding that the focus is primarily on improving working conditions in remote or extreme temperature environments.
When asked if these savings would affect the electricity price for consumers, the manager emphasized that the direct impact would be limited but highlighted the efficiency and safety improvements for operational teams.
She declined to comment on the Iberian blackout that affected Portugal and Spain in April but stressed the importance of digitalization in responding to extreme events. “While I won’t speak specifically about the blackout, I can say that automation and digitalization solutions facilitate the creation of smarter networks and more efficient operations. Energy will exemplify what is possible in these areas,” she added.
The hybridization of plants, combining different renewable sources at the same location, is also a priority for EDP. “We will present new targets at our Capital Markets Day in November. Hybridization is a strategic focus for the group, but we must ensure that licensing processes advance accordingly, from regulatory and legislative perspectives,” she stated.
Discussing the impact of the current geopolitical situation, including conflicts in the Middle East, the leader acknowledged increased uncertainty but assured that EDP’s commitment to the energy transition remains strong. “The energy transition remains imperative, and we will continue to work towards it.”
Currently, over 90% of the energy produced by EDP comes from renewable sources, including solar, with an installed capacity exceeding 6.2 gigawatts (GW).
