How digitalisation is transforming the renewable energy industry

It’s improving consumer experience

After a global spike in energy prices, energy insecurity is a real concern for modern-day households. But some technology advancements are helping consumers take control of the levels of energy they consume and how much money they’re spending.

Smart metres and apps used to control them are becoming hugely popular, benefitting not just the consumer but the company and whole grid networks too. For example, EDF energy has an app that allows end users to monitor their usage and receive personalised tips on how to reduce it.

Together, smart meters and their consumer apps provide the vital building blocks needed to create a greener network and maximise the use of renewable energy sources. Not only do customers get the autonomy to control their energy consumption and bills, but data collected from the smart metres and apps can give an accurate view of the energy being used, where and when. This informs the grid of the energy usage they need so that they can plan to efficiently incorporate higher percentages of renewable energy ahead of time.

It’s changing how we distribute energy

A flexible energy system is important to ensure that there is a constant and reliable supply reaching consumers. When there are surges to the grid, it makes sure that we have enough energy to go round, and when supply diminishes, it makes sure that we are storing the surplus.

A flexible energy system also has the ability to change supply or demand of energy due to a signal (e.g., price) to help manage the electricity system. Up until now, flexibility in energy systems has meant adjusting the supply according to the demand. But now, clever AI technologies are helping the system adjust so that the demand meets the supply. This means using the kinds of energy generated at their most productive times, giving more space to use renewable energies at the height of their generation and creating a greener system. For example, powering a dishwasher during the day using solar power in its abundance.

It’s transforming jobs in the industry

Improving system flexibility alone, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial strategy predicts that 24,000 jobs could be generated in the UK by 2050. The bottom line is, new technologies call for new professions, new skillsets and a new approach to employment, which the renewable energy industry should be ready for.

Traditional renewable energy jobs, such as project managers and commissioning engineers are still in demand, but technology specific jobs that require digital skills are emerging. Data scientists and software engineers, for example, are in great demand to help manage program and software new learning systems and analyse data using complex algorithms based on Artificial Intelligence. And they’re not just important for operations right now, but these roles are laying the foundations for more efficient renewable energy technology and greater innovations for the future.

Speak to Quanta

As the renewable energy industry evolves, so do we. Our dedicated team of renewable energy recruitment consultants have been keenly tracking new developments in the field and harvesting the best talent to meet the modern needs of the sector. Do you have the technical skills and knowledge that could land you an emerging profession in the field? We would love to hear from you. Search our renewable energy jobs or get in contact with one of our team today.