IOM3 responds to consultation on an AI-enabled clean energy system
The consultation focused on the opportunities and risks associated with AI in this sector
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) set out the emerging view on the role AI will play in delivering a secure and clean energy system, seeking inputs on how to best address barriers and manage risks. The consultation will inform the government’s first ‘AI for Clean Energy Strategy’.
Informed by our members, including the Energy Materials Group and Energy Transition group, the IOM3 response focused on the need to consider the impact of AI across the full clean energy supply chain, as opposed to only focusing on the operation of energy infrastructure. The response highlighted developments in the application of AI to energy materials discovery, infrastructure design and material longevity.
The response also highlighted the importance of recognising AI as a materially intensive technology. While operating in the digital space, AI hardware relies on large volumes of material inputs, many of which face precarious global supply chains. IOM3 argues that these issues must be taken into account as a risk factor in the deployment of AI in critical national infrastructure.
Furthermore, the response highlighted the opportunities associated with the integration of digital twins and AI to help maximise efficiencies and sustainability in clean energy infrastructure, particularly wind.
Finally, access to quality data and the standardisation of data storage across industry were highlighted as key enablers for the successful roll-out of AI at any part of the supply chain.
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