When virtual meets reality: transforming green training with VR

At our net zero training academy in Kingswinford, innovation is at the forefront of everything we do. As we continue to transition to a sustainable future, equipping our engineers with the necessary skills to drive this change is crucial. 

To help us on the journey to net zero, we’re teaming up with FocusXR to train our engineers using cutting-edge Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technology - where our workforce can perfect their skills in everything from heat pump installations to smart metering, all without ever leaving the academy. 
 
Rather than sending our engineers out to practice in customer homes, we're bringing the homes to them—virtually, of course. Through the immersive power of VR headsets, they can now train in a realistic simulation of a customer's home, where they can safely try, fail, and try again until they’ve nailed it. This means less disruption for our customers and more confidence for our engineers when they’re out in the field.

This also allows our engineers to gain hands-on experience in installing and maintaining green technologies like heat pumps and smart meters without the need to physically enter a customer’s home. Not only does this reduce the potential for disruption, but it also ensures that our engineers can practice and perfect their techniques before applying them in real-world settings.

Alongside FocusXR, we recently captured 360-degree extended reality content for our meter installation refresher training (pictured left) which includes crucial elements such as hazard awareness, safety checks, and installation procedures for both gas and electric systems. The use of VR in this context provides our engineers with a highly interactive learning experience, helping them to identify and navigate potential challenges they may encounter in the field.

But the advantages of this digital transformation go beyond technical training. The flexibility of VR and AR technology allows us to cater to various learning styles, including those of neurodiverse individuals. By providing a variety of interactive and engaging training modules, we're making sure that every engineer can learn in a way that works best for them, creating a more inclusive learning environment. 

We’re also exploring other innovative options, such as integrating AI into our training programmes to further enhance learning experiences. Plus, we’re working with other parts of the business to see how these digital tools can be applied across E.ON, ensuring that our entire workforce is future ready. 

By digitalising and adapting our training methods, we are paving the way for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future. Our engineers are now better equipped than ever to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. By bringing VR and AR into our academy, we’re not just teaching green skills—we’re creating a greener way to learn.