Vattenfall Eldistribution Employs AR GIS Tool to Safeguard Sensitive Species During Fieldwork

Vattenfall Eldistribution is pioneering the use of an advanced augmented reality (AR) GIS visualization tool to enhance precision and environmental protection during utility fieldwork. Tested extensively as of November 5, 2025, the technology integrates satellite positioning with real-time AR, enabling field personnel to pinpoint sensitive ecological and archaeological sites with centimeter-level accuracy directly onsite. The system, built on Trimble's SiteVision software, combines a mobile screen and a handheld GNSS receiver to display utility corridors, biotopes, and historically significant locations.

Johan Johansson, the test leader, emphasized the tool's dual benefit: “This tool allows us to work more efficiently while paying greater attention to natural values. We can avoid trampling sensitive plant habitats and plan our interventions with high precision directly in the field.” The tool has already been instrumental in protecting endangered species such as the Väddnätsfjärilen butterfly and the narrow-bordered bee hawk-moth by marking the growth areas of their critical food plants, ängsvädd and common knapweed respectively.

Replacing traditional laser measures and tape tools, the AR system not only improves time efficiency but also minimizes ecological disturbance. Furthermore, the technology assists in maintaining clear patrol paths for smoother terrain navigation. While significantly improving GIS data visualization in the field, Vattenfall is actively exploring further refinements to enhance clarity and usability tailored to demanding field conditions.