DNV Talks Energy

Data analytics in the electricity sector

With new and innovative technologies developing at record pace, DNV’s Michael Wilkinson, Global Segment Leader, Energy Digitalization, gives us some advice on how to see through the digitalization hype and better understand the solutions that can help to transform the electricity sector. In this digitally acute episode, Michael gives us an overview of the technologies that are driving the digitalization revolution and introduces DNV’s latest whitepaper - Data Analytics in the Electricity Sector, which examines the current role of data analytics, and its likely influence on the energy systems of the future. He gives examples of how digitalization aids the forecasting of renewable energy flows, and so enables operators to better respond to demand; the impact on energy trading and markets; and how technologies such as blockchain are transforming local energy communities. Finally, Michael touches on the regulatory challenges arising from the introduction of these new technologies.

Turning risk into opportunities

Behind every risk there is an opportunity. In the last episode in this series, Sven Mollekleiv, Senior Vice President, Group Sustainability at DNV, explains how DNV’s Global Opportunity Report focuses on turning risks into opportunities to support sustainability. In this interesting episode, Sven explains the origins and purpose of the Global Opportunity Report, and how it is being used by the UN Global Compact as the basis of their business strategy. He introduces the Global Opportunity Explorer and discusses how this innovation hub is enabling organisations to work together to create sustainable solutions. He also touches on the progress of the Global Assembly’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (‘SDGs’), and the concern that four of the 17 SDGs are falling behind the 2030 targets. Finally, Sven gives some insight into the Energy Industry Conference 2018 in Dubai, and specifically, on why businesses must be involved in creating the smarter solutions of the future. *This episode was recorded live at the Global Smart Energy Summit 2018.

Electric Vehicles - The Norwegian way

Will only autonomous electric vehicles be available in the future? DNV talks to Christina Bu, Secretary General of Norwegian Electric Vehicle Association about the incredible advancements made by the electric vehicle (‘EVs’) industry and considers the impact that this is having on the car industry today.
In this forward thinking episode, Christina shares with us her incredible experience and knowledge of the EV industry. She explains how Norway became the leading country in the adoption of electric vehicles, and in doing so, how it has tackled the myths surrounding EVs. Christina also highlights the changes in the EV consumer market; reveals how this market has matured over recent years and which brands are likely to become the driving forces in EV manufacturing. Finally, Christina looks to the future and explains which new technologies and countries are likely to make a significant impact as the EV market continues to grow.
*This episode was recorded live at the Global Smart Energy Summit 2018.

The role of the data scientist

Artificial intelligence, machine learning and an increase in data are transforming the energy sector. In this latest episode of our podcast series, DNV talks to Norv Klontz, Director, Data Science Innovation at Duke Energy about the current role of the data scientist and how we can expect it will evolve in the future.
Large investments into the smart grid are giving rise to an increase in intelligent devices across the distribution network. We talk to Norv about the resulting growth of data available, and the benefits that this has for the consumer. Norv explains the impact that increased data and data analytics is having on utilities, and shares with us the challenges that this is causing. Finally, Norv gives his views on how he sees the role of the data analyst changing in the future, and what these developments might mean for the energy market around the Middle Eastern region.
*This episode was recorded live at the Global Smart Energy Summit 2018.

Dubai: Looking beyond oil

In a region so historically reliant on oil, what does the future hold for the United Arab Emirates? In this latest episode of our podcast series, DNV talks to Graeme Sims, Executive Director of Dubai’s electricity and water regulator, Regulatory and Supervisory Board (‘RSB’), about how Dubai and the other Emirates are adapting to the energy transformation.
In this insightful episode, Graeme takes a look at the region’s journey into a new, more sustainable world. He explains how RSB has supported Dubai during their significant growth in energy demand, and highlights some of the learnings for other cities from Dubai’s experiences, such as their development of district cooling schemes. Graeme gives us an insight into the local approach to renewables, and in particular his thoughts on electrification and the impact that this is having on the region. Finally, Graeme gives us an overview of the themes discussed at the Global Smart Energy Summit and his views on energy subsidy reform.
*This episode was recorded live at the Global Smart Energy Summit 2018.

The New Social Compact: clean and equitable energy for all

As new technologies continue to disrupt the energy sector, what are we doing to ensure that they are available in every community? In this latest episode of our podcast series, DNV talks to Andy Karsner, Managing Partner at Emerson Collective about the main drivers behind the aim for sustainable and affordable energy for all. In this fascinating and thought-provoking interview, Andy considers whether new technologies are helping to reduce the inequities in global access to energy. We look back to the original promises made at the time of Thomas Edison’s great inventions, and discuss how the promise of providing energy for all needs to be updated to reflect the modern world. We also discuss the DNV Energy Transition Framework for Cities report and Andy shares his views on who should drive the move towards sustainable and affordable energy, and what the markets can do to support this transition. Finally, Andy gives some insight into the reasons for the imbalance in the efficient use of energy across the globe, and explains why he believes that true energy efficiency is about doing more with the energy that we have, not attempting to live with less. *This episode was recorded live at the Global Smart Energy Summit 2018.

Digitalization & the impact of new technologies

Electric vehicles; data security; blockchain; and other digital solutions are being adopted around the globe. Brian Williams, Industry Value Advisor Expert at SAP, shares his views, and some cautionary advice with DNV, on the impact of these emerging technologies on sustainability and the energy transition.
In this insightful episode, we talk to Brian about the impact of the energy transition on the European, Middle Eastern and African power grids; and explore how these markets are using differing renewable solutions to meet their energy mix requirements. Brian gives his views on the growing electric vehicles market; explains why SAP is focusing their attention on helping commercial clients to optimize their fleets; and considers the impact of fluctuating demand for electricity on both the utilities and consumers. Finally, Brian shares his thoughts on blockchain; the security concerns for future users, and the biggest opportunities arising for the energy sector.
*This episode was recorded live at the Global Smart Energy Summit 2018.

Storage solutions - Bridging the energy supply gap

As renewable energy takes an increasingly large proportion of the energy mix, concerns remain over the inconsistent nature of the supply. DNV talks to Dr Martin Keller, Director at National Renewable Energy Laboratory, about the storage solutions available to help bridge these gaps, and how the nature of storage is likely to evolve in the future.
In this very informative episode, we consider how the energy infrastructure must adapt to cope with a significant proportion of renewables in the energy mix. Martin shares his engaging insights into the role of the consumer in creating a two-way grid of the future, enabling customers to both take from and give back to the grid. He also considers the main drivers that will encourage consumers to engage in this way, and what regulatory and pricing incentives might need to be applied. Finally, Martin explains the impact that new technologies are having on investments into renewable energy, and gives his thoughts on the opportunities for more cost-effective storage solutions around the United Arab Emirates.
*This episode was recorded live at the Global Smart Energy Summit 2018.

Transitioning from national to regional grids

Can our grids cope with the growing demand for new technology solutions? In this latest podcast episode, DNV talks to Jeroen Scheer, Chief Technical Officer of Alliander, about the impact of new solutions and renewables on the grid, and how DSOs are preparing to cope with this increasing demand.
In this informative episode, Jeroen gives his views on the main challenges faced in the energy transition from a Distribution System Operator’s perspective. He discusses the current transition from a grid managed at a national level, to one that is more regional; and the role of the TSOs and regulators. Jeroen addresses questions on - how to ensure that the grid does not become overloaded due to increasing demand; how can a utility keep up with the growing requirements for installation of renewable solutions; and what is the effect that this is having on the engineering talent pool? Finally, Jeroen shares his thoughts on the impact of the transition on retailers, and gives some insights into how they will evolve in the future.
*This episode was recorded live at the Global Smart Energy Summit 2018.

Energy transition in cities

What will it take for our cities to become both sustainable and carbon neutral in the future? Betty Seto, Head of Department for Sustainable Buildings and Communities at DNV, discusses the findings of our report, Energy Transition Framework for Cities, revealing how mid-sized cities around the world are using innovative initiatives and policies to help them to achieve their ambitious sustainability goals. In this first episode in our latest series, Betty considers the seven dimensions, or habits, adopted by highly effective cities to aid them in their ultimate goal of achieving a sustainable and carbon neutral community. She reveals how many mid-sized cities are leading the way in setting ambitious targets to achieve this, and discusses the motivation behind their strategies. Betty highlights the activities of cities such as Palo Alto, US and Bristol, UK, and explains how other cities around the world can learn from their innovative approaches. She also reflects on the role of investors, and the challenges that cities face in securing funding for their initiatives. Finally, Betty explores how partnerships with private & public sector companies can benefit cities and how the sharing of knowledge and expertise can help to achieve ambitious climate targets. *This episode was recorded live at the Global Smart Energy Summit 2018.