Duquesne Light Company and Pittsburgh Robotics Network Team Up to Enhance Utility Operations
Collaboration explores AI-driven robotics to enhance grid reliability, safety and service
PITTSBURGH — Duquesne Light Company (DLC) today announced a partnership with the Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN), an industry group representing a network of more than 250 artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics companies in the Greater Pittsburgh Region. The organizations will collaboratively identify emerging technologies that can enhance safety, improve efficiency and deliver affordable, reliable service to DLC customers.
As the field of physical AI rapidly evolves, the partnership offers a unique opportunity to harness its potential for electric utility applications. The PRN will serve as an innovation partner, working alongside DLC to evaluate critical operations and uncover opportunities to strengthen grid reliability. Leveraging their deep expertise across robotics, AI and automation, the PRN will advise and evaluate on the commercial viability of solutions in asset monitoring and inspection, predictive maintenance and repair tools, extreme weather resilience and workforce safety. By applying cross-sector innovation strategies, the PRN helps corporate partners transform complex operational challenges into scalable, future-ready solutions.
The collaboration leverages Pittsburgh’s role as a global leader in robotics, AI and energy innovation, anchored by Carnegie Mellon University and the National Robotics Engineering Center and as spotlighted by the recent Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit. It also underscores DLC’s ongoing commitment to advanced technologies, building on efforts like its existing drone inspection program, which enhances safety and efficiency.
“DLC is proud to partner with the PRN to promote groundbreaking industry solutions and cooperate with electric utilities across the nation to make our grid smarter and more efficient,” said Brian Guzek, DLC’s vice president of operations. “The partnership marks an exciting step forward in our commitment to innovation and we take pride in leading the charge to modernize operations to support team members, customers and our community.”
“The PRN is excited to work with DLC as a partner of our Corporate Innovation Program that empowers companies to identify, validate and implement Physical AI solutions that deliver measurable impact. By reducing risk and accelerating adoption, this program helps organizations maximize innovation impact and positions them as a leader in the electric utility industry.” said Jennifer Apicella, executive director of the PRN.
To learn more and explore collaboration opportunities, including an upcoming industry roundtable, visit the DLC Innovation Center webpage, the Pittsburgh Robotics Network website or attend Robotics & AI Discovery Day on Nov. 5 to experience the cutting-edge technologies shaping our region’s future.
About Pittsburgh Robotics Network
The Pittsburgh Robotics Network facilitates commercial business growth and talent development opportunities for the region's robotics, autonomy, and AI cluster by connecting local companies, academic institutions, investors and entrepreneurs in southwestern Pennsylvania. With over 250 robotics & AI companies and a network spanning 18 industry verticals, PRN facilitates commercialization, networking and talent development to drive economic and technological growth. Through initiatives like professional development programs, global partnerships and high-profile events, the network strengthens Pittsburgh’s position as a global leader in robotics innovation. To learn more, visit robopgh.org
# # #