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The European Technology and Innovation Platform Smart Networks for Energy Transition (ETIP SNET) drafted a strategic position paper – guide for unlocking the AI and GenAI potential in smart grids and the energy transition. Stakeholders, experts and solution providers can provide insights and opinions through surveys by February 23. A webinar is scheduled for March 13, a day before the release of the second version.
ETIP SNET is conducting a wide-range discussion on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and generative AI, gathering contributions from all partners and stakeholders involved in the transformation.
The European Commission created the European Technology and Innovation Platforms (ETIPs) for stakeholders and experts from the energy sector. The role of ETIP Smart Networks for Energy Transition is to guide research, development and innovation (RD&I) to support Europe’s energy transition. One of its main tasks is to set out a vision for smart grids and engage stakeholders.
One of ETIP SNET’s main tasks is to set out a vision for smart grids and engage stakeholders
ETIP SNET identifies innovation barriers, notably related to regulation and financing, and develops knowledge-sharing mechanisms for the deployment of RD&I results.
It released the first draft of upcoming strategic position paper Unlocking the Potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (GenAI) in Smart Grids: A Guide for Action. The document is available for download here.
Three surveys for stakeholders, experts, solution providers
Surveys are up until February 23 for stakeholders, experts and solution providers. The main one is for general insights and opinions. The ongoing initiatives survey was launched to collect and integrate perspectives on innovation and best practices for the roadmap. Solutions and services providers have an additional questionnaire.
A webinar is scheduled for March 13 and registrations are ongoing. ETIP SNET said the team would share the version 2.0 at the session, one day before its scheduled release.
The session is an opportunity to explore the latest strategic developments, contribute to the collective vision and collaborate on key recommendations, according to the call. ETIP SNET declared the previous webinar a huge success, having 480 participants.
ETIP SNET developing strategic roadmap
The final version of the comprehensive guide is due on April 3. It is an analysis of the policy landscape and technological innovations, the authors said. The aim is to develop a strategic roadmap for energy ecosystem stakeholders.
“Given the European Union’s recent commitment to mobilize EUR 200 billion for AI investments, as highlighted at the Paris AI Summit, discussions on integrating AI into our energy infrastructure are more timely than ever. This significant investment underscores the critical importance of AI in shaping Europe’s future,” said ETIP SNET Digitalisation of Energy and Customer Engagement Chairwoman Elena Boskov Kovacs.
AI, GenAI are tools for enhancing smart grids
The energy transition is not just an environmental necessity but also a strategic imperative for Europe’s economic competitiveness and energy security, the draft reads. The deployment of digital technologies, particularly AI, is seen as essential to manage the complexities of the energy transition, according to the document.
AI algorithms analyse data from various sources, such as smart meters, sensors and weather forecasts, to improve grid management
The authors pointed to the need to address the issue of energy justice, ensuring that the benefits of the transition are shared by all, and that no one is left behind. They added that smart grids enable near real-time monitoring, dynamic demand response and seamless integration of decentralised renewable energy resources. Such systems facilitate a more interactive and responsive energy system, allowing for better management of energy supply and demand, ETIP SNET said.
“AI and GenAI are emerging as powerful tools for further enhancing the capabilities of smart grids. These technologies can process vast amounts of data, optimise grid operations, and enable new functionalities previously unattainable… AI algorithms analyse data from various sources, such as smart meters, sensors and weather forecasts, to improve grid management. This includes optimising energy distribution, predicting equipment failures, and managing demand,” the document adds.
GenAI can synthesise new data and generate scenarios for strategic decision-making, supporting grid planning and operation, the authors wrote. According to the draft, AI plays a vital role in detecting and mitigating cyber threats to ensure the security of the critical infrastructure of smart grids.
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