An application of autonomous vehicles to manage high-risk exposure in geothermal operations

Abstract

As part of an effort to keep people safe, Mercury is developing an autonomous inspection vehicle (AIV) as a proof-of-concept project alongside New Zealand company Wrybill Robotics. The aim is to reduce personnel exposure to high-hazard environments on geothermal and hydro power generation sites. The initiative leverages autonomous robotics, thermal imaging, hydrocarbon (pentane) cameras and post-image analysis to allow comprehensive monitoring of site environments.
The primary objective of this project was to minimise human exposure to hazardous areas on site, by using a remote autonomous inspection vehicle that allows for safer monitoring of plant. In addition to scheduled inspections, the autonomous vehicle will be deployable in emergency scenarios which will allow operators to assess the plant and make decisions from a safe area.
Another key objective was the successful execution of reliability trial runs on Mercury’s Rotokawa site. These trials tested the autonomous vehicles navigation system and provided photo and video data for analysis. Results from these trials will guide further technology enhancements and validate the autonomous vehicle's reliability and readiness for regular full-site routes.
Following the Rotokawa site deployment, the project is proposed to expand to Mercury hydro generation site Ohakur? by trialling two indoor autonomous vehicles using a different navigation technology. This aligns with Mercury’s strategy to use digital solutions to reduce risk to their people.
This initiative aims to show the potential of using autonomous systems to transform how power generation sites are monitored, and risk is managed.