AI-Driven Digital Transformation for Sustainable Energy Network

This research addresses the critical challenge of ensuring real-time grid stability and resilience as the UK accelerates its net-zero transition through large-scale renewable integration and electrification of heating and transport. With rising vulnerabilities from climate-induced extreme weather events, the project focuses on leveraging decentralised flexible resources—such as distributed energy systems and microgrids—through advanced AI-driven modelling, market mechanisms, and control strategies. The goal is to create transformative digital solutions that enhance the resilience and cost-effectiveness of future low-carbon energy systems, supporting the UK’s leadership in sustainable and secure energy transitions. 

The UK has committed to reach net-zero by 2050, with an ambitious target to decarbonise its electricity grid by 2030, positioning itself as a “clean energy superpower”. This energy transition involves expediting decarbonisation by integrating large-scale renewable energy and electrifying heat and transport sectors. However, managing renewable energy variability and electricity demand peak poses significant challenges. Moreover, climate change-induced extreme weather events create risks of widespread outages, jeopardising energy security. This interdisciplinary community brings together experts from engineering, computer science, and economics to develop cutting-edge AI solutions for sustainable energy systems, solidifying the UK’s leadership in the global energy transition.