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In the pursuit of a sustainable energy future, researchers from Australia’s CSIRO, led by Surya Nepal, have joined forces with counterparts from The Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) in the USA to spearhead an innovative initiative known as ‘The Internet of Energy.’ This collaborative effort aims to revolutionise the utilisation of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), such as solar panels and electric vehicles, through the integration of cutting-edge technology.
At the heart of this ambitious project lies the vision of creating a smart and interconnected system by leveraging advanced 5G-6G networks and artificial intelligence (AI). The goal is to optimise energy distribution on an unprecedented scale, transforming the current landscape where DER-supplied electricity often grapples with challenges related to weather-dependent variables. Surya Nepal aptly characterises the existing scenario as the “install and pray” approach, highlighting the limited visibility and control within the current DER system.
Artificial intelligence emerges as a pivotal component in reshaping this paradigm. The collaborative team envisions harnessing the predictive power of AI to anticipate the impact of variables such as weather on DERs. Additionally, AI can play a crucial role in identifying periods of peak demand, enabling the management of energy production and minimising waste. This not only enhances the efficiency of energy production and storage but also introduces a level of control and intelligence that is currently lacking in the system.
However, the technological leap forward comes with its own set of considerations. Paramount among these is the issue of privacy. As the project involves the analysis of sensitive data related to location, time, and energy usage, robust techniques are imperative to protect individual privacy. Striking a balance between leveraging data for optimisation and safeguarding individual privacy will be crucial in ensuring the success and acceptance of the Internet of Energy.
Moreover, the entire infrastructure of the Internet of Energy, encompassing both physical components like DERs and digital components such as software and algorithms, must be resilient against external threats. This includes not only cyber-attacks but also the physical resilience of DERs to extreme weather conditions. The interconnectedness of the system introduces new challenges that demand comprehensive solutions to guarantee its reliability and security.
The collaboration between CSIRO and Georgia Tech, acknowledged by leaders such as the Australian Prime Minister and the American President, underscores the significance of responsible and equitable AI frameworks. Prof Ling Liu, the computer science expert leading the joint project from Georgia Tech, emphasised the commitment to developing AI technologies that ensure universal access to the benefits of energy advancements while upholding principles of privacy, security, and fairness.
The scope of the collaborative effort extends beyond technological innovation. The project is funded by a collaboration between the US National Science Agency and CSIRO, reflecting a commitment to responsible and ethical AI solutions that address global challenges.
The Science Director for CSIRO’s Data61 highlights the project’s role in advancing critical infrastructure protection and resilience. The focus on critical digital infrastructure aligns with the broader goal of creating a more equitable, safe, secure, and sustainable world in the global transition to net zero.
As the project unfolds, it serves as a testament to the potential of collaborative research in driving groundbreaking solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges. The fusion of technological innovation, responsible AI frameworks, and a commitment to inclusivity positions ‘The Internet of Energy’ as a pioneering initiative in the global quest for a sustainable and technologically advanced energy landscape.
