FUTURE PROOFING
of renewable energy sources and ensuring grid stability – all while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Scaling up renewables while maintaining grid reliability and delivering electrification of sectors such as transportation, heating, and industry, are another challenge. Utilities are also exposed to political and regulatory complexities specific to each country they operate in.
The existing grid infrastructure in many parts of Europe is ageing and was not designed to accommodate the decentralised nature of renewable energy generation, such as roofmounted solar panels or wind farms. Power utilities need to invest in modernising the grid to handle a greater influx of renewable energy, integrate decentralised production, and facilitate new forms of consumption such as electric vehicles and home energy systems.
This is driving the need for smart grid technologies to enable better demand-response and real-time grid management. This will also help to address grid congestion and more effectively balance supply and demand, as well as expand interconnection and cross-border electricity trade within Europe.
Meeting new challenges while maintaining operational efficiencies
In 2025 and beyond, power utilities will need to address these interconnected challenges while maintaining operational efficiency, meeting customer expectations, and supporting the broader goals of energy security, sustainability, and economic stability. Strategic investments in digital infrastructure, energy storage, grid modernisation, and regulatory compliance will be crucial to navigating this complex landscape.
Faced with these multi-faceted challenges, how can Geographic Information System( GIS) technology help power utilities grapple with energy transition, decarbonisation, and modernisation?
GIS technology plays a critical role, enabling utilities to collect, analyse, and visualise spatial data, which is essential for optimising their infrastructure, operations, and decision-making
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