How AI, renewables, and decentralised grids are rewiring the future of energy

As the energy sector accelerates towards a digitally driven, low-carbon future, the path forward is anything but simple. In this episode of the Energy Connects Podcast and as we prepare for the World Utilities Congress 2025, we revisit a standout conversation from the Energy Connects Studio with Oxana Dankova, Global Energy Network Lead at BCG. Oxana discusses the real-world challenges of transitioning to a renewable-powered energy system - from the volatility of solar and wind to the pressure of balancing supply and demand in real time.

She emphasises the critical role of AI and advanced data analytics in managing modern power grids, enabling predictive infrastructure planning and simulating countless scenarios to avoid costly missteps. Oxana also highlights the potential of decentralised energy systems - particularly at the distribution grid level - to boost resilience and efficiency, especially in developing regions. Drawing on global case studies such as South Australia’s rooftop solar boom and evolving EV strategies across Europe and the US, she outlines what a more flexible, responsive utility model could look like - and the barriers that still remain.