Energy and AI
This field has grown in importance over the past decades as the industry shifts from the traditional electrical grid fed from synchronous generators to a more automated, controlled, sustainable and resilient grid fed from both traditional generation and renewable energy sources via complex electronic converters.
The continuing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East are causing global energy shortages. Prices of oil and gasoline are fluctuating and increasing resulting in concerns for the public.
The increasing relevance of the following future loads and their impact on the electrical grid is sure to bring further complications that will require the grid to adapt:
• The formation and incorporation of micro- and mini-grids in the distribution system
• The incorporation of charging sub-stations for electrical vehicles
• The future impact of data centres and AI-led developments.
1.The formation and incorporation of micro- and mini-grids in the distribution system
The integration of renewable generation is occurring in a distributed manner in the grid. This provides the capability of having generation closer to the consummer and the possibility of reduced transmission losses. The requirement of two-way power flow is met with additional investments in communication, sensors and automation.
2.The incorporation of charging sub-stations for electrical vehicles
The future of the German auto industry is facing serious challenges due to the shortage of power and software related issues. In the mean time, EVs from China are set to challenge the other global manufacturers both in price and capacity. The ensuing trade wars will have an impact in the penetration of the new vehicles in the market place. Never the less, the charging sub-stations will create bottle necks in the grid when the EVs have a higher mix in the transportation vehicles. The residential loads will increase in a similar fashion with the growth of the EVs.
3.The future impact of data centres and AI-led developments.
It is well known that AI services need more power. However, the AI demand is proving much easier to build than to provide the power ressources to energize the data centers. As an example, PJM Interconnection, the largest U.S. electricity grid operator, faced energy shortages and failed for a third consecutive auction to secure enough generating capacity for the 2028 - 2029 delivery year, falling short by some 6.8 GW. This shortage highlights how AI-driven data center demand is outpacing availability of new power supply. Capacity payments remained at a record $16.4 billion, with prices hitting the auction cap for a second straight time, which will mean higher electricity bills for U.S. consumers. Attention now turns to an emergency procurement process later this year that would require hyperscale data centre operators, rather than households and businesses, to shoulder more of the cost of adding new generation needed to support AI-driven electricity demand. The proposal is also intended to provide stronger incentives for utilities and developers to build new power capacity.
