AI, Data & Flexibility: How Technology Is Transforming the Energy Sector
Interview with Hélène Schricke, Solution Manager at Worldgrid
The energy industry is undergoing a historic transformation: decarbonization, digitalization, and the rapid expansion of renewable energy are changing not only market mechanisms but also the requirements for grid operators, energy suppliers, and technology providers.
In the interview, she explains the role data, AI, and innovative platforms will play in the future and why flexibility is the key to a stable energy system.
Which current market trends are shaping the demand for solutions in the energy sector?
In Europe, we are seeing four strong trends:
- the desire to reduce dependence on oil,
- the pressure to cut CO₂ emissions,
- the need to ensure grid stability despite increasing renewable energy volatility, and
- the aim to reduce negative electricity prices on the market.
How have customer requirements changed, and which market segments offer future growth potential?
IoT is no longer the main focus. Today, it’s all about data management and the flexibility that comes with it. This includes national and European data storage, data protection regulations, cybersecurity, the creation of data lakes for new services, and the use of AI to optimize energy flows, renewable generation, and storage solutions.
A major area of future potential lies in energy flexibility solutions, particularly through distributed storage.
Which types of projects currently dominate your work as a Solution Manager?
We are now in the second generation of network management software such as smart metering or SCADA systems. Customers want to improve their cybersecurity, develop new data‑driven services, enhance grid stability, implement DERMS to integrate renewable energy, and increase grid transparency — particularly in low‑voltage networks.
What role do IT and engineering capabilities play in complex energy projects?
Complex projects involve many market participants, transactions, secure interfaces, and optimization processes. Without strong IT and engineering expertise, it simply doesn’t work.
A good example is Active Flexibility: flexible energy from consumers, suppliers, or storage systems is made available. Our AI4ES (AI for Energy Storage) platform can intelligently control different storage systems — from large‑scale storage to home storage and EV batteries — and optimize them for various market services.
Which technologies currently have the greatest influence on energy projects?
Edge computing enables secure communication with a wide range of distributed devices.
AI and modern data platforms are essential for reliable forecast consumption, generation, or grid bottlenecks and for supporting optimization strategies.
AI is already widespread, especially in forecasts linked with weather data. However, AI for real‑time control applications is still underdeveloped.
Which technological developments will become particularly relevant in the coming years?
AI methods must be further developed in areas where data is scarce — such as low‑voltage networks — to predict disturbances, bottlenecks, or quality issues.
Another exciting topic is Nested Network Management: the idea of coordinating household‑level energy optimization so that it positively affects higher grid levels such as neighborhoods or regions — similar to the cooperation between DSOs and TSOs in medium‑ and high‑voltage grids today.
What role do end‑to‑end solutions play for the future competitiveness of energy companies?
They enable complete transparency and control over infrastructure and processes — a clear competitive advantage. This requires consistent monitoring of technological trends, early planning, and targeted investments.
Which skills will be crucial for your job in the near future?
A solid understanding of market rules and regulations in the energy sector, and — equally important — the ability to truly listen to customers’ pain points. Every customer brings new challenges, making the job versatile and dynamic.
