Last Thursday, July 9, the webinar Digitalization in the energy sector took place, which was organized by Topsector Energy, a consortium of governments, companies and knowledge institutes. The session focused on how the energy sector can utilize the opportunities of digitalization and what the challenges are. The experts in this webinar were Kees van der Klauw (strategist Dutch AI Coalition) and Pallas Agterberg (strategy director Alliander).

By: Jesse Markus

The process of digitalization is taking place in every possible sector. In particular, in the energy sector. For example, Microsoft and PWC have calculated that digitalization can enable a four percent reduction in emissions by 2030. Digitalization ensures more efficient processes, which provides better insight into the required energy capacity. Where can profit be made or where are the limits of the electricity grid?

During the webinar, Pallas Agterberg from Alliander provided insight into their strategy. They are currently implementing artificial intelligence (AI) in their business processes to better collect information and make predictions about energy capacity based on that. Continuous pressure on the energy grid also requires continuous monitoring. This can be made possible with digitalization.

In addition, the energy market is becoming increasingly dynamic due to the arrival of new suppliers (so-called disrupters) that put pressure on established market parties. These innovators often come from outside the sector and provide a lot of dynamism on the market. This means that existing parties, such as Alliander, also have to participate in this innovation. Digitalization is an essential part of future plans.

Kees van der Klauw of the Dutch AI Coalition also emphasized the opportunities of digital technology and artificial intelligence in the energy strategy. For example, prediction models can save a lot. At the moment, the Netherlands is a leader in AI, but not enough companies know how to find this knowledge. In addition, the data and management information are interesting information for hackers. Where digitalization will play a greater role, increased resilience and protection are also necessary.

The arguments of both speakers ended with a plea to move away from sectoral thinking and towards chain cooperation in order to tackle the climate challenge in the Netherlands. A plea that we as FHI support and which we have seen in the formation and operation of the National Consortium for Aids. See this article.

In October, FHI organizes a event about cybersecurity with the core question: how can cybersecurity be secured as well as possible? We will also discuss in November data science and how this can be used practically and effectively. Both events that address the challenges described in this article and for which members can register free of charge. 

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