NAES, an independent power operator managing 65 gigawatts of energy production, and Gecko Robotics, a developer of AI-driven platforms and robotics, have announced a strategic partnership valued at more than $100 million. The agreement, which has the potential to expand beyond $250 million based on demand, is focused on modernizing power plants across the United States in response to growing energy needs and a national energy emergency declared by President Trump on January 20.
The collaboration aims to enhance power plant efficiency and reliability by integrating Gecko’s AI-powered robotics with NAES’s operational expertise in both thermal and renewable energy. The U.S. power grid is facing increasing pressure due to rising energy consumption, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, data centers, transportation electrification, and industrial growth. National energy demand is projected to increase by approximately 16% over the next four years, while data center power demand is expected to rise by 160% by 2030.
Gecko’s robotics technology, including wall-climbing robots, drones, robotic dogs, and fixed sensors, collects extensive data on critical infrastructure. This information is processed through Gecko’s AI-powered software platform, Cantilever®, to monitor asset health, predict maintenance needs, and optimize performance. The technology is designed to reduce unexpected downtime, extend asset lifespans, and improve operational efficiency.
The partnership also seeks to address workforce challenges in the power sector, where retirements outpace new hires. By incorporating advanced technologies, NAES and Gecko aim to make the industry more attractive to new talent while retaining institutional knowledge.
NAES, which operates one of the largest power generation fleets in the U.S., has built its expertise over four decades by providing services to a wide range of customers. Gecko’s data suggests its AI-driven platform and robotic technology can reduce reactive maintenance by 80% and double asset lifespan, enhancing infrastructure reliability.
“Throughout its history, Pennsylvania has been on the cutting edge of robotics, technology, and energy – and this partnership between Gecko and NAES shows what the next generation of energy projects could look like in the Commonwealth,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “Under my Administration, I have an energy plan to spark new innovation and build a more reliable, affordable energy grid by incentivizing new projects, streamlining permitting approvals, and encouraging communities to lower utility bills through shared energy resources. By coming together around an energy strategy, we can support groundbreaking projects like this, lower costs for consumers, create more jobs, and position the Commonwealth to continue to be a national energy leader for decades to come.”
