Robotics is used in multiple fields (industrial, agricultural, domestic, scientific, educational, medical, military, leisure, service, transport robotics, etc.) and is a science of technological integration at the crossroads of mechanics, electronics, computer science and networks, in particular communication. The desire to relocate production to Western countries, the ageing of the population and the increasing demand for automation are drivers of the revival of robotics, especially since the key technologies of robotics are experiencing spectacular advances: the rise of artificial intelligence, the sophistication of sensors, improved battery efficiency, internet of things (IoT), 5G, etc. As a result of these advances, single-function robots are being replaced with polyfunctional robots (including humanoids) that can take on a multitude of tasks and are also designed to operate in a world with humans. Polyfunctional robots can seamlessly switch between tasks as required, improving efficiency and providing a faster return on investment, resulting in accelerated adoption across industries and use cases.
Highlights
- The global industrial robots market was valued at USD 41.9 billion in 2023 and is all set to surpass USD 192 billion by 2033. Asia-Pacific leads the market, capturing 62.9% of the global share, with China as the largest contributor. Europe follows with Germany at the forefront, while North America sees strong adoption, particularly in the U.S., driven by the automotive and electronics sectors.
- Leading companies, including FANUC, ABB, KUKA, and Yashakawa, control a significant portion of the market, driving innovation with AI integration, enhanced programming, and sustainability-focused solutions (here).
- On the proposal of the Chinese National Committee, which will act as its secretariat, the IEC has created a new technical committee on robotic systems for the electrical industry, including distribution networks.
- Gartner predicts that by 2030, 80% of humans will engage with smart robots on a daily basis, up from less than 10% today.
Challenges and opportunities for DSOs
- Industrial robots are able to operate in high-risk environments (live work), support heavy loads, perform arduous tasks and be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Driven by an operator or autonomous and capable of adapting to their environment, they should enable DSOs to improve health, safety and productivity.
- To date, robots are generally used in controlled and restricted areas. DSO operation fields are various and usually not completely controlled. Under these circumstances, adaptation and security are major challenges.
E.DSO Considerations
- DSOs must identify tasks that can be robotised in their businesses in order to test available solutions, develop new ones and assess the associated gains and performance.
- Opportunities for increased automation should be expanded by measuring each process against the abilities of existing and planned polyfunctional robots.
- The main usages for distribution networks are potentially related to maintenance and inspection.
Potential use cases
- Inspections: Robots can perform routine inspections of substations, underground cables, and other infrastructure. Please note that this Radar contains a dedicated factsheet for Drones that also covers potential use cases for the inspection of infrastructure such as overhead power lines.
- Infrastructure installation: Robots can assist in upgrading and installing new infrastructure, such as installing smart meters, cables or digging trenches.
- Logistics: Robots can deliver parts to field workers.
Ongoing projects
- The Dutch DSOs (Alliander, Enexis and Stedin) together with Gasunie (gas TSO) have signed a letter of intent for a joint Robotics Lab. In the lab, robotic solutions are developed for tasks where human intervention is not necessary. By automating repetitive and dangerous tasks, robots increase efficiency, safety, and effectiveness for the Dutch DSOs.
- Enedis has developed TST-Bot, which is a remotely operated robot designed to perform live work on medium-voltage networks using an insulated platform with robotic arms. It enhances operator safety and reduces environmental impact. The TST-Bot will be tested on the MV network by four Enedis live working teams throughout 2025.
Last update: 26 June 2025