McKinsey & Company estimates that renewables will account for 65 to 80 percent of global power generation by 2050. Utility companies will continue to be at the forefront of the energy transition and need the right technology by their side to support new and existing projects. They must equip their workforce with the right tools to streamline workflows, enhance connectivity, and boost efficiency to drive the transition to renewable energy. This is where the most advanced rugged mobile devices become invaluable assets and a reliable partner to help utility workers get more done and adapt quickly to the evolving demands of a more renewable-focused energy grid.

Powerful Processing for Streamlined Workflows

By 2030, the Boston Consulting Group estimates there will be a global shortage of 7 million skilled workers for renewable energy projects like installing solar panels, heat pumps, and wind farms. Rising demand for new infrastructure places additional pressure on an already strained utility workforce that is also responsible for maintaining the current grid infrastructure.

Rugged mobile technology enables utility workers to meet current and future demands more effectively. With powerful processing capabilities, rugged devices allow field technicians to securely send required reports directly from the job site to regulatory agencies or customers. This streamlined approach speeds up project timelines and supports the rapid implementation of modern energy infrastructure, reducing the need for office visits and enabling real-time updates and compliance reporting.

Durable Design for Demanding Environments

Rugged mobile devices are designed with their users in mind. Many renewable energy projects take place in rural areas with unreliable infrastructure and other challenging conditions. Rugged devices are built to perform well in these remote environments, enduring extreme temperatures, dust, and water exposure so technicians can stay connected and productive without interruptions. Added durability reduces equipment failures and downtime, which helps workers to complete tasks efficiently and minimize return trips, ultimately accelerating the rollout of renewable energy infrastructure.

Imagine a field crew working on a wind farm in a remote, high-altitude location where cold temperatures, strong winds, and dust are constant challenges. Using rugged mobile devices, the crew can access and update project data in real-time, communicate instantly with the main operations center, and capture detailed site photos to document progress – all without worrying that their device will shut down due to weather exposure. If an installation requires an immediate part replacement, the crew can use their devices to check inventory or order parts directly from the field, saving a trip back to headquarters. This efficiency not only keeps the project on schedule but also reduces operational costs, making it easier to scale renewable energy installations.

Boosting Connectivity and Access to Real-Time Data

The latest rugged mobile devices offer multiple connectivity options, including 4G and 5G LTE, satellite, and Wi-Fi, to help utility workers stay connected, even in remote, off-grid locations. Fast, reliable connectivity enables real-time communication and data access, so field teams can coordinate more effectively and make informed decisions quickly.

Consider a solar installation crew working in a remote desert area with unreliable cellular coverage. They rely on their rugged mobile devices, which support satellite connectivity, to instantly receive updated site plans, access diagnostic information, and retrieve performance metrics for new equipment. This capability allows them to make data-informed adjustments on the spot. If a piece of machinery requires troubleshooting, technicians can access system logs and consult with remote experts in real-time, without leaving the job site.

Preparing for Tomorrow’s Energy Challenges

As the energy transition continues, utility companies face both challenges and opportunities in embracing renewable energy sources. Rugged mobile technology plays an important role in this transition, equipping field teams with tools to increase efficiency, streamline workflows, enhance connectivity, and make data-driven decisions.  By investing in the latest rugged devices that balance computing power with reliable performance, utilities can empower the workforce, ensure the delivery of sustainable power, and adapt to the evolving demands of a renewable energy future.