NEURA Robotics Teams Up With E.ON to Train Humanoids for Power Grid Inspections

METZINGEN, Germany, Nov. 5, 2026 (ROBOT24.com) – NEURA Robotics has partnered with German energy companies E.ON and enviaM to develop humanoid and other robotic applications for electricity grid inspections, with initial real-world testing expected in 2027.

The project will bring energy infrastructure specialists into the development of physical AI systems, using their knowledge to train robots for tasks such as inspecting substations, monitoring critical equipment and supporting site security. MITNETZ STROM, enviaM's electricity grid subsidiary, will serve as the pilot partner for testing applications in operational environments. 

The training shall begin at TUM RoboGym powered by NEURA, a robotics research and training center established by NEURA Robotics and the Technical University of Munich at LabCampus. The facility opened in October 2026 and covers more than 2,300 square meters. 

The training process will combine demonstrations by experienced grid workers, data collected from physical robots and simulated environments. According to NEURA, specialists will demonstrate their workflows using motion capture, sensor-equipped suits and teleoperation. Robots will also collect information about their movements and physical interactions while performing tasks. 

NEURA's Neuron AI model is designed to process multiple types of information, including 3D vision, touch, audio, robot status and language. The company plans to use its Neuraverse platform to manage trained robotic skills and make them available for compatible robots and other locations. 

Humanoid robots are being considered because electricity infrastructure includes stairs, doors, control cabinets and other equipment designed around human access. NEURA says its 4NE1 humanoid could eventually navigate these environments without requiring modifications to existing facilities. 

The partnership will initially focus on identifying suitable applications and developing the necessary robotic skills under controlled conditions. E.ON and enviaM will retain control over their data and trained capabilities, according to the companies. 

However, the announcement does not specify how many robots will participate, which grid locations will host the tests or what performance standards the machines must meet. The planned 2027 trials will provide the first indication of whether skills developed in a training center can transfer to the demands of electricity grid operations.