SSEN Transmission recently announced Haggis, a one-of-a-kind robot expected to help make electrical networks more resilient. Haggis at 25 kilograms, it rolls on all-terrain wheels. It plays a role in safety, autonomously piloting through high-voltage halls by rapidly scanning for faults and maintenance requirements in electrical components. Rolling out Haggis in 2024 would be a monumental achievement of network innovation. This technological development is a big deal and it’s important for realizing our transition to net zero.
Haggis was created by Ross Robotics. Their aim was to design a robotic solution that would be able to collect key information in high-risk, hard-to-reach areas. Once it’s done with its duties, Haggis quickly and effectively makes its way back to its charging station to stay constantly ready for action.
This summer, SSEN Transmission was awarded £139,663 in funding for the RAPID project, which will work on improving Haggis’s capabilities. The funding will be allocated toward developing artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques that will analyze the data collected by Haggis. This application of cutting-edge science and engineering will enhance fault detection and preventative maintenance capabilities across our electrical grid.
Haggis echoes the sentiments of last year’s Electricity Links and Capacity report by Nick Winser, the UK government’s independent electricity networks commissioner. SSEN Transmission is committed to innovation. Alongside these innovations, SSE actively engages in wider efforts to make the electricity transmission network in the north of Scotland more modern and robust.
Alan Ritchie, SSE’s director of transmission development, said innovation was key in their success to date and continuing with the projects.
“Innovation plays a key role in our work to upgrade the transmission network in the north of Scotland, and we’ve been on an exciting innovation journey over the past year – with ODIN and RAPID among an extensive portfolio of sector-leading projects.” – Alan Ritchie
Additionally, Ritchie explained that the existing portfolio has the potential to produce transformational advantages for the sector.
“Overall, we anticipate our current portfolio has the potential to generate upwards of £190m in benefits by the end of the 2026 to 2031 price control period (RIIO-T3), demonstrating our substantial contributions to the sector and our dedication to using innovation to deliver a sustainable, resilient and efficient electricity network for the future.” – Alan Ritchie