AI and Cybersecurity Driving Energy Sector Transformation

The energy sector, historically dominated by analog giants, is undergoing a digital transformation powered by artificial intelligence (AI). This shift enhances renewable integration, demand forecasting, and blackout prevention, promoting a sustainable and efficient energy future. However, it also raises significant data security challenges.

Digital technology is crucial in managing the vast data from energy systems. Sensors and smart meters collect key data, which advanced software analyzes to optimize energy consumption. Generative AI is vital in increasing the efficiency, resilience, and security of energy transmission and distribution networks, simplifying consumption forecasts, optimizing demand management, and predicting failures or anomalies.

CESI leads this transformation, working on various energy transmission and distribution projects. By analyzing databases and developing algorithms, CESI aims to create new AI and machine learning tools that provide valuable information for daily activities and system planning.

Other digital technologies, such as advanced IoT devices, 5G and 6G connectivity, and digital twins, also play essential roles. Digital twins, in particular, allow real-time simulation and monitoring of components, systems, and processes, enhancing security, predictive maintenance, and asset lifecycle estimates.

Security is paramount. CESI’s IT Director, Daniele Daminelli, stresses the importance of a robust cybersecurity culture beyond compliance: “Developing a solid culture of cybersecurity is vital. This requires personnel to prevent abuses, developers to adopt secure coding practices, and a constant commitment to collaborate with colleagues in other sectors and stay continuously updated.”

CESI’s innovative cybersecurity project focuses on enhancing remote access security with Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) architecture, integrating network and security solutions into a cloud-based service. Luca Pantini, CESI Head of Network, Infrastructure & Security, highlights that SASE will bring “significant improvements in terms of accessibility, efficiency, and safety of our IT assets and company applications, independently of their position.” This approach offers better network operation, improved security, reduced costs, and simplified management.

AI and digital technologies, alongside strong cybersecurity measures, are key to driving the energy sector’s efficiency, sustainability, and security.