Virtual Reality Substation

Transforming Utility Training with VR

As part of phase 1, EPRI has completed the design of a fully immersive Virtual Reality (VR) Substation. This effort represents a major step forward in how utilities can train and prepare their workforce across engineering, operations, design, and safety by offering an interactive and accessible digital twin of a live substation environment.

Why It Matters

Utilities are faced with rapidly changing technologies and a workforce that is transitioning with aging infrastructure, increasing regulatory complexity, and the need to onboard new talent efficiently while traditional training methods are struggling to keep pace. The VR Substation responds directly to these challenges by enabling a real-world training environment without the logistical, safety, or financial burdens of accessing a live station. VR training has already demonstrated its value across industries for improving safety, reducing costs, and enhancing knowledge retention. In the utility context, this technology becomes even more powerful when applied to:

  • High-risk or restricted-access facilities,
  • Expensive or unique equipment designs,
  • Safety-critical procedures,
  • Scenarios where multi-user interaction is essential.

Project Overview and Outcomes

The VR Substation initiative leveraged EPRI’s research foundation to create a modular, scalable training ecosystem with key milestones including:

  • Completion of 3D modeling, system architecture, UI design, and a fully operational multi-platform application.
  • Delivery of both a self-guided training mode and a multi-user session mode, supporting peer instruction and team-based learning.
  • Compatibility with the broader EPRI Virtual Training infrastructure and companion spectator applications.

Real-World Applications Identified by Members

Beyond technical training, member utilities have already identified several high-value use cases:

  • Virtual site tours for corporate, engineering, and planning staff—eliminating travel, enhancing understanding, and improving safety.
  • Recruitment and outreach at job fairs or classrooms—demonstrating utility work in an engaging, modern format.
  • Contractor orientation—covering limits of approach, safety protocols, and hazard awareness for vegetation management or animal abatement within substations.
  • Pre-job briefings—facilitating virtual walkthroughs with construction or maintenance contractors to highlight energized equipment and work zones.

Looking Ahead

This project marks the foundational step in what is expected to be a broader transition toward immersive training across the industry. Future phases may include additional substations, 1-Line diagram substation creation, advanced scenarios, integration with workforce management systems, and real-time simulation capabilities. Utilities that participate in this initiative not only gain access to cutting-edge tools, but also help shape best practices, share lessons learned, and accelerate the safe and efficient adoption of VR across the sector.

Conclusion

This is more than just a technological advancement—it’s a new way of thinking about training, workforce development, and operational readiness. As utilities continue to use tools like the VR Substation, opportunities to building a resilient, informed, and prepared workforce is enhanced.