On May 7, 2025, CESI hosted the high-level seminar “Power Grid Innovation and Resilience: Asian Perspectives” during the 58th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Milan. The event brought together international institutions, development agencies, and energy industry leaders to explore the future of power systems across Asia and the Pacific.
The seminar addressed the growing complexity of power system operations in the region, focusing on pressing challenges such as renewable energy integration, cybersecurity threats, extreme weather events, and the evolving interaction between transmission and distribution networks. Tackling these issues calls for advanced technological solutions, including:
- Modernization of national control centers through automation and digitalization
- Enhanced grid monitoring with Internet of Things (IoT) technologies
- Integration of operational and information technologies via process virtualization
- Application of data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence for real-time grid management
A dedicated section of the seminar explored the development and financing of long-distance interconnections—crucial for enhancing regional energy integration. Innovative financing models were discussed, including regulated asset-based approaches, availability-based long-term contracts, merchant lines with cap-and-floor mechanisms, and hybrid structures. Supporting these models requires the adaptation of regulatory frameworks and legislation to ensure bankability and implementation.
The transformation of distribution networks was another key focus. Once designed for one-way power flow with limited visibility, today’s distribution grids are evolving toward dynamic, digital systems. The future lies in self-healing, decentralized “grids of grids” equipped with distributed controls to boost system flexibility, reliability, and resilience.
As a concrete example, the seminar spotlighted CESI’s work in Indonesia to strengthen the country’s power system security through advanced technical services—one of many initiatives that reflect CESI’s deep commitment to the region.
During the event ‘Doing Business in Asia with the ADB – Opportunità e Success Stories Italiane’, which took place on May 5, CESI CEO Nicola Melchiotti emphasized the company’s 15-year track record in Asia, highlighting CESI’s technical support for smart grids, electrification, HVDC corridors, and disaster recovery across several countries in the region.
CESI remains committed to driving Asia’s sustainable energy future by offering trusted technical expertise, promoting innovation, and fostering global collaboration.
