In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague sits down with Tim Lichti, founder and CEO of Swap Robotics, to discuss innovative solar farm vegetation management solutions. Lichti shares insights into how his company is tackling one of the most significant ongoing expenses in solar farm operations - vegetation control.
Swap Robotics has developed a fleet of custom-built, all-electric robots designed to maintain large-scale solar installations. These machines feature unique capabilities such as offsettable cutting decks that can reach under solar panels and specialized attachments for trimming around I-beams. Lichti explains how these robots are revolutionizing the industry by providing a more efficient, clean, and cost-effective alternative to traditional mowing methods.
The conversation delves into the technical aspects of the robots, including their battery-swapping system, operational range, and the company's "robotics as a service" business model. Lichti also discusses the potential for integrating robotics with sheep grazing and future plans for hay production attachments, opening up new possibilities for agrivoltaics.
Tune in to learn about the current state of Swap Robotics' operations, their expansion plans, and how this technology could significantly impact the solar industry's bottom line while contributing to more sustainable land use practices.
Social Media Handles
https://www.linkedin.com/in/timlichti/
http://www.swaprobotics.com/
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0:00 Introduction
2:23 Tim Lichti, and Swap Robotics background
6:10 The Custom-Built Robot: Design and Features
8:50 Installation Process and Charging Infrastructure
9:56 The "Golden Gate Bridge" Model of Operation
12:26 Swap Robotics Range
13:05 Current Scale of Operations and Future Plans
14:00 The Future of Agrivoltaics: Robots and Sheep
16:20 Business Model: Robotics as a Service
16:36 Geographic Distribution of Current Operations
16:58 Mowing Frequency in Different Regions
17:40 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
