Seattle-based startup Aigen, founded in 2020, is pioneering a sustainable solution to one of farming’s most persistent problems, “weed control.” The company’s approach combines artificial intelligence, robotics, and renewable energy to offer farmers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical herbicides. At the heart of Aigen’s offering is the Element robot, an autonomous, solar-powered machine designed to navigate crop rows and eliminate weeds without the use of harmful chemicals. This “Roomba for the farm,” as described by Aigen’s CEO and co-founder Kenny Lee, uses AI-driven cameras to identify weeds and understand plant anatomy, allowing it to target weeds precisely where they are most vulnerable.
The Element robot is split into two main components: the robot itself, which navigates through fields and collects data on crops using AI, and interchangeable modules that perform specific tasks. The first module developed by Aigen happens to focus on weeding. Aigen’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the Element robot’s design. Powered entirely by renewable energy sources, specifically solar and wind, each robot is equipped with custom 205W solar panels. This allows the machines to operate for up to 14 hours a day, often generating a power surplus. The robots’ energy efficiency is further enhanced by regenerative motors that capture and reuse energy during operation.
As of December 2024, Aigen has 50 robots in operation, primarily working on sugar beet crops in the Red River Valley region of North Dakota. However, the company is actively expanding its capabilities to serve a wider range of crops. Current testing includes organic edible soybeans and cotton, two crops similar in shape and volume to sugar beets. The company’s focus on cotton is particularly noteworthy, given cotton’s reputation as one of agriculture’s most resource-intensive crops in terms of water and chemical usage. By providing an alternative to chemical weed control for cotton, Aigen could significantly reduce the environmental impact of this important crop.
Aigen offers its robotic weeding solution as a comprehensive service rather than a product for purchase. Farmers consult with local Aigen agents to assess their needs, after which the company delivers, operates, and maintains a fleet of robots throughout the growing season. This service model ensures that farmers can benefit from the technology without the need for significant upfront investment or technical expertise. Aigen’s robotic weeding service also offers numerous benefits to farmers through its mechanized, chemical-free weed control. Most notably, you can expect improved soil health as you won’t be relying on heavy machinery or harmful chemicals.
As the robots work, they collect valuable data about crop health, pest presence, and field conditions. This information is shared across the network of machines and analyzed using AI, providing farmers with real-time insights to make informed decisions and allowing farmers to more easily scale their weed management efforts as needed. While specific figures are still being tabulated, the elimination of chemical herbicides and reduction in manual labor is likely to result in significant economic benefits for farmers over time.
The company’s innovative approach has garnered significant attention. The company raised $19 million in 2023 from investors including NEA, ReGen, and Cleveland Ave. Demand for their service has been strong, with pre-orders sold out. The company’s potential for impact has been recognized by the industry, with Aigen featured in “Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies in Agriculture for 2024.” As the company continues to refine its technology and expand its crop coverage, it has the potential to transform weed management practices across the agricultural sector. Definitely a technology worth keeping your eye on, as I looked at it in person at our recent FARMCON event. You can learn more at their website HERE. Below is a short 2-minute video that does a great job of explaining the technology. Click HERE