Five ways that data is enabling the green energy transition
As the global community grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change, transitioning to green energy is crucial for achieving net zero emissions. Society is looking to governments, regulators, and businesses to facilitate a smooth and secure energy transition while fostering economic growth.
In the UK, the energy regulator Ofgem has recently unveiled a multi-year vision and roadmap for constructing the green energy system of the future. The core elements of this plan include upholding high customer standards and trust, ensuring well-planned infrastructure is delivered on time, and maximizing innovation and efficiency to reach net zero at the lowest possible cost. This initiative goes beyond mere decarbonization, aiming to transform operations, business models, and customer services.
To accomplish such an ambitious transition to net zero, substantial investments in intelligent assets and infrastructure will be necessary. These investments must be made while minimizing impacts on customers in terms of cost, choice, or service quality.
Simultaneously, UK utility National Grid is spearheading “The Great Grid Upgrade”—the most significant overhaul of the UK’s electricity grid in generations. With the shift to renewable energy sources and the rising demand for EV charging, there is an increasing need for accurate, transparent, and timely data. Data is now pivotal in project planning, decision-making, and delivering services to customers.
Here are five critical ways data is accelerating the transition to a fairer, more secure, efficient, and flexible green energy system.
Shared sustainability roadmaps and measurement.
Organizations have committed to achieving net zero, but accelerating progress remains challenging. Often, the difficulty lies in knowing precisely what to measure and how to drive the necessary changes. Transitioning to solar and wind energy and addressing the growing demand for EV charging present both significant opportunities and considerable challenges. This transition demands close collaboration across diverse supply chains and with various regional and international partners. Data transparency is crucial, as is partnering with sustainability experts who have a proven net-zero track record and offer innovative solutions. Additionally, digital tools, such as digital twins, are vital for achieving measurable decarbonization outcomes.
Unlocking the value of trusted data
Advanced data analytics drive increasingly self-optimized, predictive, and proactive operations, enhancing business efficiency and worker safety. However, there is a pressing need to establish a robust framework for data sharing throughout the green energy supply chain, encompassing suppliers, distributors, partners, and consumers. Effective evidence-based decision-making relies on a single version of truth to meet operational and strategic goals. Ensuring clear stakeholder accountability and fostering trust and transparency are crucial for successful data sharing.