Smart grids and AI at the core of the energy transition

Particular attention was drawn to the panel titled “Digital Integration – Turning Variable Power into a Resilient Regional Grid”, which highlighted the critical role of digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics systems in managing the growing complexity of energy networks.

The discussion was moderated by Rachel Millard and featured Mihai Manole, Nikolaos Hatziargyriou, Dimitar Zarchev, and Dimitris Primpas.

The Dual Impact of AI on the Energy Market

During his intervention, Mr Primpas underlined the dual impact of artificial intelligence on the energy sector, noting that the expansion of AI applications is significantly increasing electricity demand, primarily due to the growing computing requirements of data centres. At the same time, however, these same technologies can serve as powerful tools for optimising grid operations.

As he explained, electricity transmission and distribution operators (TSOs and DSOs) are entering a period of accelerated digital transformation, as the continuously increasing penetration of renewable energy sources requires entirely new management capabilities.

According to Mr Primpas, technological investments are currently focused on three main pillars:

• real-time grid monitoring and control,
• the use of AI algorithms for forecasting and optimisation,
• and the strengthening of cybersecurity.

From Reactive Maintenance to Predictive Operations

Mr Primpas also referred to developments in the Greek market, particularly IBM’s collaboration with IPTO (ADMIE), through AI-based solutions that enable continuous monitoring of critical grid infrastructure.

Using predictive models, these systems can identify potential malfunctions at an early stage, allowing preventive maintenance to be carried out before failures occur.

The shift from a fault-repair model to one based on prediction and prevention is expected to significantly reduce both operational disruptions and infrastructure maintenance costs.

Cybersecurity: The New Frontline of Energy Investment

Special emphasis was also placed on cybersecurity, as the digitalisation of energy grids increases the exposure of critical infrastructure to new risks.

As the Head of IBM Greece and Cyprus noted, grid operators are gradually moving away from traditional closed operating systems toward environments based on millions of sensors, continuous data flows, and advanced analytical models.

However, this increased connectivity also creates new security challenges.

“We must be able to respond with equally advanced security solutions, so that we can react rapidly to such attacks, because energy networks constitute critical infrastructure,” he stressed.

The discussion concluded with a clear message to the market: the energy transition will depend not only on the development of additional renewable energy projects, but also on the ability of energy networks to become smarter, more interconnected, and more resilient against technological and cyber threats.