Borobotics AG is developing Grabowski, a compact, autonomous, electric robot designed to drill geothermal boreholes for ground-source heat pumps used in building heating and cooling. Grabowski integrates the drilling system directly within the borehole, reducing surface footprint, noise, emissions, and logistical complexity. This approach also enables geothermal installations at sites that are inaccessible or prohibitively expensive to drill using conventional methods. By enabling geothermal drilling where traditional systems cannot operate, the project supports broader adoption of shallow geothermal energy while positioning Alberta as an early validation hub for compact, low-impact drilling technologies with strong export potential.
The project aims to demonstrate repeatable, low-impact drilling performance, validate energy and water efficiency, and confirm safe, reliable operation in constrained and urban environments. To achieve this, Borobotics plans to conduct field pilots in Alberta and Switzerland to validate the technology under the respective geological, regulatory, and operational conditions. The project will also prepare the technology for widespread industry use by designing it for large-scale manufacturing, identifying supply chains, pursuing required certifications, and addressing regulatory requirements.