EDP, a global leader in renewable energy, is piloting Comau’s advanced Hyperflex automation technology at its first photovoltaic solar park in Peñaflor, Valladolid, Spain.
This pilot project, part of EDP’s AutoPV initiative, represents the first large-scale deployment of the Hyperflex system under real installation conditions in a solar energy setting.
The pilot focuses on automating 3 MW of the park’s 122 MW capacity, with the goal of increasing construction efficiency and improving safety. Automation enables key construction tasks to be completed more quickly while allowing human workers to focus on specialized technical roles.
“EDP is at the forefront of the global trend of automation in the renewable energy sector. By investing in a solution as innovative as this, we contribute to making the construction of solar parks faster, more efficient, safer, and more sustainable,” said António Coutinho, CEO of EDP Innovation.
Automation Technology Designed for Efficiency
The Hyperflex system operates as a mobile factory, incorporating a pre-assembly station and a robotic rover. These components work together to handle and install photovoltaic structures. The system is transported to the solar park via truck, where it is assembled and deployed onsite.
Hyperflex automates three key stages of construction: unloading and assembly from the truck, structure installation, and disassembly for transport to the next site. This integrated process enables greater speed and consistency in construction while reducing the physical burden on workers.
With this technology, EDP expects to reduce the assembly time for solar panel structures by up to 50%. Robots handle tasks such as positioning and securing heavy components, while human workers focus on managing technical details, creating a balanced collaboration between human expertise and automated precision.
“The pilot in Peñaflor is just the first step in introducing automation solutions into EDP’s robust solar business plan,” explained Coutinho. “EDP’s goal is to transform this into a global and integrated process, capable of generating competitive advantages for all the company’s operations and enhancing our human capital for more qualified activities.”
Advancing Safety and Sustainability
Automation also contributes to improved safety by reducing the need for manual handling of heavy components. Additionally, the system’s ability to collect and analyze data during operation helps identify potential areas for future optimization, ensuring that subsequent projects benefit from continual improvements in efficiency and safety.
Comau, an Italian leader in robotics and automation, developed the Hyperflex system to address the unique challenges of large-scale renewable energy projects. “The collaboration with EDP confirms the importance and added value of automation in renewable energies and particularly, in this case, solar panel installation,” said Pietro Gorlier, CEO of Comau. “Thanks to our advanced technology, we allow our customers and partners to experience better quality, increased efficiency, and lower overall costs, helping them contribute to making sustainable solar energy a reality.”
Supporting Renewable Energy Growth
EDP’s renewable energy portfolio already includes over 4 GW of installed solar capacity. The company has set ambitious sustainability targets, including phasing out coal-fired generation by 2025, transitioning entirely to green energy by 2030, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.
With 98% of its energy already derived from renewable sources, EDP continues to explore innovative technologies to accelerate the energy transition. By incorporating automation like Hyperflex into its operations, EDP demonstrates its commitment to advancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in renewable energy development. The Peñaflor pilot is an important step in scaling these technologies, not only for EDP but for the renewable energy sector as a whole.
About EDP/EDPR:
EDP
EDP is a global energy company with operations across Europe, North America, South America, and Asia-Pacific. It focuses on four main areas: renewable energy generation, energy networks, client solutions, and global energy management. The company employs over 13,000 people worldwide. EDP manages a renewable energy portfolio of 26.6 GW in wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. The company is also exploring emerging technologies like green hydrogen, hybrid renewable systems, and energy storage, while expanding grid infrastructure to support the energy transition. As a leader in sustainability, 98% of EDP’s energy is generated from renewable sources. The company plans to eliminate coal use by 2025, transition to fully renewable energy by 2030, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. EDP is investing over €17 billion by 2026 to enhance renewable capacity, strengthen electricity networks, and support clients and communities in adopting sustainable energy solutions.
EDPR
EDP Renewables (EDPR), a division of EDP, specializes in renewable energy development across Europe, North America, South America, and Asia-Pacific. The company operates a diverse portfolio that includes onshore and offshore wind, solar, and emerging technologies such as hybrid systems, energy storage, and green hydrogen. EDPR has 16.6 GW of renewable capacity installed and plans to invest €12 billion by 2026 to further expand its operations. The company’s commitment to sustainability and inclusion has been recognized through its inclusion in the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index and designation as a Top Employer 2024 in multiple regions, including Europe, Brazil, and Asia.
As part of EDP, EDPR aligns with the group’s global goals to transition away from coal by 2025 and operate entirely on renewable energy by 2030. In addition to renewable generation, EDP supports energy networks, client services, and energy management worldwide, with a reputation as one of the most sustainable electricity companies in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.
About Comau:
Comau specializes in providing advanced automation solutions to industries worldwide. With 50 years of experience and operations in 12 countries, the company supports businesses of all sizes in adopting automation technologies.
Its offerings include automation systems for vehicle production, a strong presence in e-Mobility, and advanced robotics and digital tools for industrial applications. Comau also provides project management and consulting services. Through its training programs, the company promotes technical and managerial skills to help organizations adapt to changes in automation and technology.
Headquartered in Turin, Italy, Comau operates 7 innovation centers and 12 manufacturing facilities globally, employing approximately 3,700 people. With a network of distributors and partners, Comau ensures responsive support for its customers worldwide.
