Innovations in EPC: Driving Energy Efficiency and Decarbonisation With AI

As the world struggles with the urgent need for decarbonisation, innovation and artificial intelligence (AI) stand at the forefront of transforming energy sectors. These technologies are driving the energy transition, enabling us to meet the challenges of climate change while fostering economic growth and social equity. Currently, there are different ways of producing electricity which are not as well known. For example, a BBC analysis found that electricity is produced by burning household rubbish in giant incinerators, which scientists warn is a disaster for the planet. The planet urgently needs better ways of meeting the energy demand to meet Net Zero ambitions.

The energy industry increasingly turns to engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) partners to replicate efficiency, decarbonisation, and environmentally friendly practices. According to research by EY cited in this recommended article in Forbes , EPC companies are now embracing sustainability targets and management services.

As we look to the future, new global regulatory requirements will likely compel EPCM companies to disclose their greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related risks. However, regulatory change is only one of many pressures on the EPCM industry. Additionally, it has been facing challenges due to high inflation and interest rates, but companies are turning to technology and digital tools to become more efficient and sustainable. Chris Ashton, CEO of Worley, comments in this Forbes article that he believes that emerging technologies carry the risk of failure but is open to investing and learning from setbacks. Despite economic headwinds, capital flows in construction technology, or “ConTech,” reached just under $5.7 billion in 2022, with further growth expected in 2025.

ADIPEC has an international impact on solving global problems

ADIPEC is showcasing EPCM exhibition booths to highlight specific technology and efficiency gains that can be achieved from energy project conception to final delivery and completion. Major energy companies heavily invest in sustainability and decarbonisation, a key theme. The EPCM segment is key to achieving this goal, and firms operating in the segment are adapting to opportunities presented by an evolving climate. This is reflected in the fresh approach to exhibitions such as ADIPEC, where the focus is on delivering an event that is truly an international trailblazing event for the energy industry.

ADIPEC 2024 is truly international with a global impact. For example, as this French article published in La Tribune shows, French leadership sees a real opportunity for exporting French hydraulic and nuclear technologies. They also see it as a strategy to reduce unemployment, potentially creating?150,000 jobs at the end of the ‘Hydrogen France’ plan. Their attendance at ADIPEC is viewed as important for environmental, societal and economic reasons.

AI Contributions to Innovation in Renewable Energy Sources

Let’s look at some recent innovations using AI to innovate in the drive towards Net Zero and adopting renewable energy sources while working to clean up the planet.

AI and the integration of renewable energy sources

One of AI’s most significant contributions is its ability to optimise the integration of renewable energy sources. AI algorithms can predict energy production from solar and wind farms by analysing weather patterns and historical data, thus enhancing grid reliability. For example, Google’s DeepMind has demonstrated how machine learning can reduce energy consumption for cooling data centres by up to 40%. DeepMind optimises energy use by predicting temperature fluctuations, allowing data centres to operate more efficiently and contributing to lower carbon emissions.

AI and improving energy efficiency with smart grids

Innovation in AI is also pivotal in improving energy efficiency across various sectors. AI-powered smart grids, which are intelligent energy distribution systems that can adjust energy distribution in real-time, minimising waste and maximising the use of renewable resources, are a great example of AI in action to support energy efficiency. In a real-world example, Siemens has developed smart grid technologies utilising AI to manage energy flow dynamically . The Siemens systems can identify patterns and predict peak demand, enabling a more balanced load distribution and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Decarbonisation of Hard to abate sectors with AI

Industries are significant contributors to carbon emissions, and decarbonisation is an area of focus for industrial processes. AI can help decarbonise these sectors by optimising processes and enabling real-time emissions monitoring.

The steel industry is traditionally hard to abate. Still, the use of AI in the steel industry has shown promising results towards net zero efforts by decreasing carbon output while enhancing profitability and competitiveness. For example, companies like ArcelorMittal are employing AI in various ways. For instance, ArcelorMittal is using AI to improve the efficiency of blast furnaces, reducing emissions by optimising raw material use and energy consumption. Further, ArcelorMittal has collaborated with Iris.AI to support the automation of some of their research and development processes using AI natural language processing, which should help boost R&D initiatives by removing blockers and expediting R&D overall.

Electric Vehicles and AI smart charging technology

The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is crucial for decarbonising the transport sector. AI is critical in helping to facilitate electric mobility by managing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and optimising battery usage. For example, Tesla’s AI-driven autopilot system enhances EV efficiency. At the same time, its smart charging technology ensures that vehicles are charged during off-peak hours, further stabilising the grid and utilising renewable energy when available.

AI and Carbon Capture Systems

Carbon capture technology is essential for mitigating emissions from hard-to-abate sectors, industries or processes that are particularly difficult to decarbonise due to their high energy use or reliance on fossil fuels. Innovations in AI are enhancing the efficiency of CCS technologies, making them more viable at scale. There are examples of AI and CCS technologies in production that support the broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions. For example, the Climeworks facility in Iceland uses AI to optimise the operation of its direct air capture systems, which are technologies that remove CO2 directly from the air. The Climeworks systems increase CO2 absorption rates while minimising energy consumption.

Next steps at ADIPEC for AI and Innovation to achieve Net Zero and Decarbonisation

Integrating innovation and AI into the energy sector is crucial for achieving wide-scale decarbonisation. These technologies enhance efficiency, reduce emissions, and ensure that the transition to a sustainable energy future is economically viable and socially equitable. By embracing these advancements, we can realise the full potential of energy to accelerate an economy-wide transformation that delivers for people, the planet, and our collective equity to work towards prosperity for all.

You can register for the ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference over at the ADIPEC website . The event takes place 4-7 November in Abu Dhabi, UAE.