How can electric utilities use virtual and augmented reality to enhance their training programs?

1 Benefits of VR and AR

VR and AR can offer several advantages for electric utility training, such as increasing engagement and retention through realistic and interactive experiences, enhancing safety and efficiency by allowing trainees to practice in a controlled environment, reducing costs and risks by minimizing the need for travel, equipment, and instructors, as well as improving performance and feedback by enabling trainees to access data and guidance in real time. Additionally, these technologies can track and measure progress and skills.

2 Types of VR and AR

When it comes to electric utility training, there are different types of VR and AR available, depending on the level of immersion, interaction, and realism required. For instance, fully immersive VR involves using a headset or a room with screens to create a 3D virtual environment that blocks out the real world and responds to the user's movements and actions. This type of VR can be used for highly immersive and interactive training scenarios such as operating a substation or responding to an emergency. Non-immersive VR involves using a computer or a mobile device to display a 3D virtual environment that does not block out the real world. This type of VR can be used for low to medium levels of immersion and interactivity, such as learning the basics of electricity. Augmented reality involves using a device such as a smartphone, a tablet, or a headset to overlay digital information or objects onto the real world. This type of AR can be used for medium to high levels of immersion and interactivity, such as inspecting a power line or troubleshooting a problem.

3 Applications of VR and AR

VR and AR can be applied to various training scenarios for electric utility roles and tasks, such as operations and maintenance, engineering and design, safety and compliance, and customer service and communication. For instance, it can help trainees learn how to operate and maintain equipment and systems like generators, turbines, switchgear, relays, and meters. It can also assist in designing and engineering components or projects like transmission lines, distribution networks, substations, or renewable energy sources. Moreover, VR and AR can help trainees comply with safety regulations such as OSHA, NERC, and IEEE. It can also help them interact with customers or stakeholders like residential, commercial, or industrial clients. Finally, it can help them handle situations or requests related to billing, outages, complaints, or emergencies.

4 Challenges and solutions

VR and AR can be expensive and require specialized equipment and software, which may not be available or affordable for all utilities and trainees. Additionally, the quality and compatibility of VR and AR can vary depending on the device, software, and content used. This can affect the user experience and the learning outcomes. Furthermore, some utilities and trainees may find VR and AR intimidating, which can affect adoption and integration into their training programs. To overcome these challenges, utilities can leverage cloud-based platforms and services that offer VR and AR solutions on demand. They can also ensure they use high-quality and compatible devices, software, and content that meet their training needs. Moreover, they should educate their staff and trainees about the benefits of VR and AR, while providing adequate support to ensure effective use.

5 Future trends and opportunities

VR and AR are constantly evolving and improving, offering new trends and opportunities for electric utility training. Artificial intelligence and machine learning can provide personalized and customized learning experiences that match the trainee's level, pace, and style, as well as smart and dynamic feedback. Internet of things and 5G can enhance connectivity and speed, enabling remote and collaborative learning experiences. Haptics and biometrics can simulate physical sensations and emotions, as well as enable more accurate assessment of the trainee's performance. All of these technologies can help improve the trainee's skills and knowledge.

6 Here’s what else to consider

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