What's Happening?
Duke Energy is leveraging immersive technologies, including XR and VR, to improve workforce training and efficiency. Since 2018, the company has developed over 38 XR applications, which have been used across various divisions, including the Natural Gas
Business Unit and Commercial Renewables. These applications have resulted in significant cost savings and increased qualification rates among employees. Duke Energy measures the return on investment for its XR initiatives through cost savings and value creation metrics, despite challenges in tracking intangible benefits like employee satisfaction.
Why It's Important?
The integration of immersive technologies in workforce training represents a significant shift in how energy companies approach employee development and operational efficiency. By adopting XR and VR, Duke Energy is setting a precedent for innovation in the energy sector, potentially influencing other companies to explore similar technologies. The use of immersive tech can lead to improved safety, reliability, and customer experience, which are critical factors in the energy industry. This approach also highlights the growing importance of technology in addressing workforce challenges and enhancing productivity.
What's Next?
Duke Energy plans to continue refining its XR initiatives, focusing on hardware improvements and software development to meet industry needs. The company anticipates further advancements in immersive technologies, which could lead to enhanced training methods and operational efficiencies. As the energy sector evolves, Duke Energy's commitment to innovation may drive broader adoption of XR and VR technologies, influencing industry standards and practices. Stakeholders will be watching for developments in hardware and software that can support these initiatives.
