A new artificial intelligence (AI) robotics company, Gritt, has emerged from stealth mode, announcing a significant funding boost of $34 million. The start-up, founded by Carnegie Mellon roboticists Puneet Puri and Vishal Dugar, aims to tackle the labour-intensive challenges of large-scale construction, beginning with the crucial task of building solar energy plants. The funding includes a recent Series A round of $26 million led by Obvious Ventures, with additional participation from Union Square Ventures and Active Impact Investment, following an earlier seed round.
Gritt’s core innovation lies in its intelligent system designed to operate in the often unpredictable and chaotic outdoor environments of construction sites. Rather than developing proprietary robotic hardware from scratch, the company leverages existing off-the-shelf equipment, such as rented skidders and robotic arms from manufacturers like Kawasaki. These machines are then controlled by Gritt’s advanced AI models, allowing them to perform complex tasks with high accuracy.
Initially, Gritt's systems are focusing on the precise handling and installation of large glass solar panels. This involves unloading the panels, transporting them to their designated metal frames, and positioning them with sub-millimetre accuracy for human workers to secure. According to Gritt, their technology can dramatically increase efficiency; a typical eight-person crew, when augmented by Gritt’s systems, could potentially install between 3,000 and 4,000 panels daily, compared to the previous 800 panels per day.
The company currently has two systems deployed and is utilising the collected data to continuously refine its AI’s behaviour. Gritt has secured contracts to assist in the installation of 2.8 gigawatts of solar panels over the next 18 months, with its client base reportedly including three of the top ten power construction firms in the United States. The firm anticipates operating 48 of its intelligent systems within the next six months, signalling rapid expansion.
Looking ahead, Gritt plans to extend its robotic capabilities beyond panel installation to include tasks such as fastening panels, drilling posts, and constructing the support racks. Longer-term ambitions include venturing into other demanding construction activities, such as tying rebar before concrete is poured. This strategic approach highlights a broader vision to automate a wide range of 'dirty, dull, and dangerous' jobs across the construction sector, potentially transforming how large-scale infrastructure projects are delivered globally.