BCA Deploys AI Piling Tech for Engie’s 250 MW Solar Project in Victoria
BCA, the Australian engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) unit of Bouygues Construction SA, is testing an Autonomous Piling System (APS) to help build Engie’s 250 MW GESF solar project in northern Victoria as reported by pv magazine Australia.
The project, located near Benalla, approximately 212 km northeast of Melbourne, will see 500,000 solar panels installed using APS supplied by US-based Built Robotics.
BCA Project Director Bastien Sauvet highlighted that the APS boosts both efficiency and accuracy by integrating AI, advanced GPS, and sensor technology to drive piles with minimal human oversight.
Sauvet said, “This marks a major step in automating utility-scale solar construction, reducing costs, and accelerating timelines while maintaining high safety standards.”
Upskilling the Workforce and Improving Productivity
Engie General Manager of Engineering and Asset Delivery, Leigh Newbery, emphasized the exciting prospects of the new technology. “It requires skilled technicians to operate it, thus upskilling the current renewable energy workforce and enabling more productivity.”
He added, “The intended higher productivity will reduce the cost of renewable energy projects and enable projects to be built in less time – which will bring down energy costs for consumers and potentially allow more renewables to be built.”
Safety Features and Noise Reduction
The APS incorporates built-in safety features, including a geofence to isolate the robot from workers, visual and audio alerts when active, emergency stops, and AI-powered cameras for collision avoidance. The robotic system also reduces noise by up to 20%, making it possible for installation to occur around the clock, provided local noise regulations can be managed.
Also read: Schneider Electric Highlights AI’s Growing Role in US Energy Demand
Project Timeline and Expectations
The installation of solar panels at the GESF project began in March 2025, with piling expected to be completed by June 2025. Bouygues Construction Australia is managing the on-site works, with a peak workforce of 240 people on-site. The project team, including 50 specialized staff in design, consulting, and management, ensures every detail is meticulously managed.
GESF is scheduled to begin operations in 2026, with a capacity of 250 MW, which will power approximately 105,000 homes.
