Utilities see AI as tool for grid modernization but lack expertise, survey finds

Group 1 - National Grid Partners conducted its second annual "utility innovation survey" with responses from 166 utility industry leaders, revealing a significant shift in innovation priorities [3][4] - 71% of utility leaders identified grid modernization as a top priority, while 45% ranked digital transformation among their top three priorities [3][4] - Last year's survey indicated that digital transformation was the top priority with 57% of leaders ranking it in their top three, followed by efficiency at 48% [4] Group 2 - AI is seen as particularly beneficial for grid applications, including predictive maintenance, wildfire risk reduction, and improved forecasting of supply and demand as renewable energy generation increases [5] - A slim majority of utility leaders believe AI will have a greater impact on innovation over the next two years compared to other technologies [6] - 80% of leaders plan to evaluate AI's impact based on fiscal metrics like return on investment and cost savings, while 71% will consider operational efficiency gains [6] Group 3 - 42% of utilities plan targeted AI deployments within the next two years, recognizing its potential in areas such as regulatory compliance and remote equipment monitoring [7] - Despite the recognition of AI's value, most utilities lack the internal expertise to implement it effectively and may need to collaborate with startups [7]