Tunnel-boring robots reshape the grid
This innovative system could help projects get connected much more quickly – and at a fraction of the cost
Ageing and already overloaded energy infrastructure is struggling to cope with the rising demand for electricity – driven, in part, by the widespread adoption of EVs.
At the same time, countries like the US are experiencing increasingly frequent extreme weather conditions, triggering more power outages due to damaged overhead power lines while further straining the grid beyond its ability to function. According to startup EarthGrid, tunnels are the solution to these problems.
Normally, utility tunnels are time-consuming and expensive to construct, facing delays or cancellations when they hit unfavourable geologic environments. EarthGrid, however, has developed a way to bore tunnels exponentially faster and at a fraction of the cost of conventional techniques.
The company’s patented Plasma Trenching System is
times faster than traditional tunnelling methods.
EarthGrid uses its plasma torches, which are primarily powered by clean energy, to bore underground supergrids that can be used to transmit renewable energy as well as ultra-high-speed internet, clean water or wastewater pipes, and even underground logistics services.
The company’s patented Plasma Trenching System uses a plasma robot to trench in any type of hard rock – including basalt, limestone, and granite – up to 100 times faster than traditional tunnelling methods. It does this by inducing thermal shock on the rock’s surface, instead of requiring harsh and toxic drilling chemicals.
This means EarthGrid can still take advantage of the convenience and safety of tunnel connections, which won’t face the same weather-related risks as overhead lines, without the associated high costs and long project timelines. Plus, underground connections limit the disruption and visual impact on surrounding communities.
Did you know?
One of the biggest challenges in the green transition is getting renewable energy and energy storage projects connected to the grid. EarthGrid’s technology could help to overcome some of those bottlenecks. By minimising labour and excavation costs while reducing project timelines, the tech could enable even remote generators to get connected quickly. Currently focused on the US, having registered as a telecommunications utility in 46 states, EarthGrid has now entered into a joint venture agreement with Kuwait Investment Authority entity EnerTech. The partnership will see EarthGrid deploy infrastructure projects across the US, before moving on to Europe and the Middle East.
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