QAZAQ GREEN.  The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) hosted its Innovation Day at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES), spotlighting the theme “Digital Solutions for the Energy Transition” in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The event convened global experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to explore the transformative role of digital technologies in advancing renewable energy adoption and achieving the ambitious target of tripling renewable power capacity by 2030, the IRENA’s website reported. 

The discussions also addressed how digital innovation can foster more sustainable and resilient communities worldwide. Participants emphasized the need to bridge the digital divide between developed nations and the Global South, particularly in terms of access to advanced technologies and data availability.

In his opening remarks, Roland Roesh, Director of IRENA’s Innovation and Technology Centre, highlighted the transformative potential of digitalisation. "Digitalisation is a key enabler and accelerator of this transformation, enhancing operational efficiency and creating new opportunities for both energy consumers and producers. However, it must be inclusive, bridging gaps between developed and emerging economies," Roesh stated.

The first panel explored the role of digital technologies—such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchains, and Digital Twins—in accelerating renewable energy adoption. These tools enable efficient data collection, grid monitoring, and dynamic pricing, while improving grid stability and integrating variable energy sources like wind and solar.

Dr. Aaseha Alnuaimi from the World Green Economy Organization underscored the importance of these technologies in improving grid reliability and optimising energy storage. Similarly, Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, emphasized the need to align energy use with renewable generation, advocating for data centres to be placed near renewable energy sources.

Bruce Douglas, CEO of the Global Renewable Alliance, highlighted how digitalisation can streamline the entire lifecycle of renewable projects, from planning to operation. "Digitalisation isn’t just important—it’s essential to meet the challenge of tripling renewables by 2030," Douglas asserted.

The second panel focused on how digital solutions can support sustainable and resilient communities, particularly in off-grid settings. Despite promising applications such as smart EV charging and pay-as-you-go financing, panelists stressed the importance of affordability, accessibility, and user education to ensure successful implementation.

Guilherme Castro, Senior Manager of AI for Energy Transition at Faculty, discussed how data-driven innovations, like "zero-bill homes," empower consumers to become energy producers. However, he cautioned against data biases, calling for algorithm transparency and inclusive development processes.

 The event concluded with a consensus: digital technologies are critical for creating energy systems that are flexible, resilient, and sustainable. However, achieving a just energy transition requires addressing disparities between regions to ensure no one is left behind.