As nations gather at COP28, prioritizing technology-driven optimization can pave the way for sustainable energy progression. Explore how advanced energy monitoring and optimization technologies can help enterprises transition from fossil fuels to renewables.
Note, this blog is part of Everest Group’s continued coverage of COP28. For our analysis of the first two days of the United Nations Climate Change conference, see our prior posting.
COP28 marks a crucial moment for discussions on moving from fossil fuels to renewables. This year’s meeting is especially important as nations reveal their plans for tackling climate change. The urgency is clear, highlighted by the Global Stocktake revealing the world is falling short of the Paris Agreement goals. COP28 is a key moment for the energy sector, offering an opportunity for governments to make bold commitments and speed up the transition.
In this context, enterprises worldwide are increasingly recognizing the imperative to transition towards renewable energy sources, driven by both environmental concerns and a growing commitment to sustainable practices. The appeal of renewables, such as solar and wind power, lies in their potential to mitigate climate change and reduce dependence on finite fossil fuels. However, despite this burgeoning enthusiasm, enterprises encounter a myriad of constraints in their quest for increased renewable energy adoption. Let’s explore this further.
Enterprises face these major obstacles in realizing their ambitious energy transition agenda:
- High initial investment costs: The transition to renewable energy often involves significant upfront capital expenditures for the installation of solar panels, wind turbines, or other clean energy infrastructure. Many enterprises, particularly smaller businesses, find it challenging to justify these initial costs despite the long-term benefits
- Intermittency and reliability concerns: Some renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, are intermittent and dependent on weather conditions. This unpredictability can lead to concerns about the reliability of energy supply, especially for businesses that require a continuous and stable power source
- Regulatory hurdles and policy uncertainty: Enterprises operating in different regions face varying regulatory frameworks and policies related to renewable energy. Inconsistent or unclear regulations can create uncertainty and hinder long-term planning for energy transition strategies
- Limited availability of suitable infrastructure: The implementation of renewable energy projects often requires ample space and specific geographical conditions. Finding suitable land or locations for solar farms, wind turbines, or other renewable facilities can be a logistical challenge, particularly in densely populated areas where land is scarce or expensive
Amidst these challenges, the shift from fossil fuels to renewables finds a bridge in the optimization and monitoring of existing energy usage through advanced technologies. Leading enterprises have started joining forces with tech players and service providers to track and enhance energy efficiency in operations, paving the way for a sustainable energy transition.
Despite a booming market in sustainability enablement services offering advanced energy-efficient solutions, enterprises hesitate due to cost concerns. Yet, key players are actively investing in cutting-edge technologies to drive energy efficiency for their clients.
Three standout solutions have emerged at the forefront of major players’ sustainability services portfolios:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT)-based energy monitoring: Revolutionizing energy optimization, IoT and AI-based systems offer real-time insights into consumption patterns. Smart sensors and meters seamlessly integrate into a connected network, continuously collecting detailed data. AI algorithms analyze this information, unveiling inefficiencies, anomalies, and optimization opportunities. The power of predictive analytics forecasts future energy demands, enabling proactive measures to mitigate inefficiencies and cut overall consumption. Infosys Energy Management Solution and TCS Clever Energy are examples of energy monitoring and tracking systems
- AI-driven predictive maintenance: With artificial intelligence, predictive maintenance transforms energy optimization by foreseeing and addressing equipment issues before performance impact. Historical and real-time data analysis allows AI algorithms to predict faults, facilitating timely interventions that prevent unexpected downtime and associated energy inefficiencies. This data-driven, proactive approach reshapes traditional maintenance paradigms, significantly contributing to enhanced energy efficiency and operational excellence. Capgemini’s predictive asset maintenance services and Accenture’s intelligent asset management services are examples of AI-driven predictive maintenance solutions for enterprises
- Occupancy and building management with AI: AI-driven systems for occupancy and building management contribute to energy efficiency by intelligently regulating lighting, heating, and cooling based on real-time occupancy data. Smart sensors and AI algorithms learn patterns of occupancy, preferences, and environmental conditions to optimize energy usage in commercial buildings. Infosys’ Smart Spaces offering focuses on energy efficiency for commercial buildings, data centers, and workspaces. Hitachi’s Intelligent Building Management System also focuses on making buildings more energy efficient
Service providers have started crafting umbrella brands for sustainability services, with energy monitoring taking center stage in their portfolios. While energy monitoring and reporting systems are branded as niche sustainability solutions, the environmental impact of solutions like predictive maintenance and smart building management systems are significant. As enterprises intensify net-zero commitments, we foresee a surge in demand for these solutions, with a special focus on sustainability. We are optimistic about the market, with a tinge of prudence.
While sophisticated energy monitoring and optimization solutions are plentiful, enterprises hesitate to invest in sustainability technologies due to perceived high costs and short-term return concerns. However, service providers are strategically bundling sustainability benefits with operational optimization engagements, along with providing niche energy-related solutions to enterprises.
Everest Group anticipates a surge in the energy-efficiency solutions market within the next two to three years. The forthcoming focus on energy efficiency at COP28 could serve as the catalyst needed to propel this market into flourishing growth.
To discuss further, reach out to Rita Soni, [email protected], Arpita Dwivedi, [email protected], Meenakshi Narayanan, [email protected], or Ambika Kini, [email protected].
To learn more about the progress made in 2023 to build a more sustainable future and key takeaways from the COP28 conference, watch our LinkedIn Live session, Building a Sustainable Future: Reflections on COP28 and Insights for 2024.
