Gritt Partners With MasTec to Deploy AI-Powered Robotics on Solar Construction Sites
By Greg Bock · · 2 min read
Construction robotics startup Gritt has partnered with infrastructure builder MasTec to expand deployments of AI-powered systems on solar construction sites across multiple states.
According to Gritt, the agreement builds on field deployments and evaluations by MasTec Renewables during the installation of megawatts of solar panels. The companies also plan to explore applications in other infrastructure sectors.
Based in South San Francisco, Gritt develops AI technology that operates through robotic attachments fitted to conventional construction equipment. Its systems are designed to learn physical tasks, including picking and placing materials, assembly and material transport, while construction workers guide and validate the work.
The technology also monitors job site activity to provide information for construction planning and decision-making.
Rob Turner, vice president of construction at MasTec Renewables, said the company has evaluated Gritt’s technology on active construction sites and sees opportunities to use it alongside experienced construction crews to support their work.
“Our craft workforce brings the skill and experience that make large-scale infrastructure possible,” Turner said. “Our focus is on giving our people the tools to do that work safely and effectively,”
Gritt said its systems have operated in environments ranging from “rain-soaked fields to deserts and snowy plains” and it is developing its AI to handle different tasks, equipment configurations and job site conditions. Gritt co-founder and CEO Puneet Puri said working with MasTec will give the company additional opportunities to develop its technology through field deployments and input from construction workers.
“Together, we are putting construction intelligence to work on construction sites, with the ambition to transform how quickly the world can build” Puri said. “Every deployment is an opportunity to make our systems more capable, and MasTec’s craft expertise and project experience make it an ideal partner as we bring that vision into the field.”
