By rosebell
As the first time, plasma-powered excavation technology has been demonstrated in Europe by EarthGrid.
In order to showing that the Plasma Excavation System (PES) validates its ability to remove hard rock without explosives, mechanical cutters, drilling chemicals, or disruptive vibrations, the Statnett, EarthGrid conducted a test campaign in collaboration with Norway’s power systems operator.
According to Statnett’s director of R&D and innovation: “We think the technology is exciting as it operates vibration-free and can be suitable for removing rock near energised facilities, thus contributing to more efficient operation and shorter shutdown times for Statnett. Through the demo days, we have had the opportunity to test the machine under Norwegian conditions. We have learned a lot and achieved promising results.We want to be at the forefront of introducing innovative technology and solutions that can provide great benefits for Statnett and society, and that’s why we invited EarthGrid to Trondheim.”
Considering that northern and southern networks still unconnected and the require for infrastructure development across environmentally sensitive and populated areas,Norway faces unique challenges in modernising its energy grid. Conventional methods like drill-and-blast often pose safety, noise, and environmental concerns.
EarthGrid says its tests in Norway follow its success in California’s Sierra granite in June this year and demonstrate the company’s commitment to adapting its technology for European conditions and energy needs.
“With this campaign, we’re validating PES under real-world conditions in Europe.The insights from Norway will directly inform the operational playbook for deploying this technology on future pilot projects,” said EarthGrid’s vice-president of operations, Ben Corwin.
With the aim of accelerating the adoption of plasma-powered excavation technology for real-world use, currently EarthGrid is seeking pilot project partners across utilities, infrastructure developers, and contractors.
While the EarthGrid’s tunnel boring robot (TBR), which has the same plasma-boring technology at its core, scaling the system for larger and more complex tunneling projects, scheduled for a 10m test tunnel in solid granite in early 2026, the Norway campaign also paves the way for this plan.
EarthGrid’s vice-president of engineering, Mark Park, said lessons learned from the PES test campaign would directly inform the continuing development of the TBR.
