Using AI for a sustainable and fair energy system
The energy transition is hampered by physical constraints that could jeopardize energy independence and security, as well as efforts to combat climate change. Key aspects of these constraints are interlinked and include challenges in grid capacity, growing demand for electricity, and the need for data for energy systems. Artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to develop solutions, for example through better coordination and forecasting. Although AI is developing rapidly and the possibilities seem endless, there are many risks. Fundamental legal, ethical, environmental, economic, and social aspects may be overlooked or ignored because their immediate benefits may be less visible or unclear, or are considered to be so.
The role of AI in energy systems
Proponents of AI applications believe that AI can help solve the identified problem. At the same time, AI also raises new ethical, environmental, economic/business, and social issues, particularly in the area of sustainability, which must be taken into account in legislation and regulations that are relevant to the application of AI in the energy sector. Our research therefore focuses on the following central research question: Which existing, emerging, or newly developed regulatory framework could facilitate the sustainable application of AI in various domains of the energy sector, taking into account ethical, environmental, economic, business, and social aspects?
Because AI and energy systems have not developed or evolved together directly, the AI4ES Lab is needed to create a transdisciplinary approach. This approach must identify and address emerging medium-term issues from various relevant perspectives. During this period, we expect to identify further changes and challenges that we can then map and investigate, which can help us learn how to address them as they arise.
About the E3LSA Lab AI for energy and sustainability
The AI4ES E3LSA Lab project aims to support the development of responsible AI for smart energy management and sustainable innovation. The project contributes to sustainable AI through 'AI for sustainability'—AI that contributes to sustainable practices—and 'Sustainability of AI'—AI with a responsible, smaller ecological footprint. It develops prototypes of solutions for legal-technical problems and policy procedures that support organizations in the energy chain in the implementation of responsible AI. The project also investigates the impact of AI on energy systems, focusing on environmental, economic (business), ethical, legal, and social challenges (E3LSA).
In short, the AI4ES E3LSA Lab aims to contribute to the development of AI for application in the energy sector in a lawful, ethical, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible manner. In doing so, it takes into account the legal frameworks that regulate the integration of AI in the energy sector, while also considering the economic and business context. Giving direction to responsible AI in the energy system.
Guiding responsible AI in the energy system
The AI4ES E3LSA Lab aims to investigate risks associated with the use of AI in the energy sector. These risks are related to:
- Careless use of AI
- Autonomous bots taking control of critical energy infrastructure
- Cybercrime
- Political or administrative misuse of AI
- Violation of privacy
- Issues related to data ownership;
- The carbon footprint of data centers
- Liability issues
- Waste processing of e-waste
This requires addressing various normative (legal, ethical, and political) questions with the aim of enabling communities, governments, and companies to make informed decisions about the use of AI in (decentralized) energy systems.
The AI4ES E3LSA Lab will contribute to:
The AI4ES E3LSA Lab will contribute to:
- Improving legal compliance of AI applications within the energy sector and supporting sustainable development through a secure and resilient energy infrastructure.
- Promoting innovation by helping companies deal with legal challenges arising from complex legal frameworks.
- Creating opportunities for companies in the technology industry in the energy sector and for companies in the energy market to optimize their activities by applying AI in a sensible and responsible manner.
- Attracting investment in AI development to accelerate the energy transition and reduce operating costs.
AI4ES is developing an 'AI4ES Navigator' to shape new regulations with a new regulatory framework for new technologies, business models, and stakeholder involvement. It does this through research in practical projects and participatory approaches within them. These projects, or 'use cases', include practices, case studies, lessons learned, scenarios, and recommendations that underpin legal and ethical frameworks, enriched with practical experience.
Collaboration partners
Coolgradient B.V., Enexis, &Flux B.V., CONNECTR, NLdigital, Eurofiber, Endona/Escozon U.A., Electricity Campus, AI Hub Oost-Nederland, FME, Brainport Development N.V., Koninklijke KPN N.V., Elferink & Kortier Advocaten, Stadtwerke Gronau GmbH/Germany, University of Twente, and JADS. In addition, the lab works closely with other ELSA Labs to share knowledge and enhance quality.
Want to know more or collaborate?
Please contact Thomas Hoppe, professor, by sending an email to t.hoppe@utwente.nl.
