Poland’s Enea Operator pilots AI for power grid load forecasts
Enea Operator, a Polish distribution system operator (DSO), is piloting the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve power grid load forecasting. The project aims to enhance the management of the distribution network by using deep learning algorithms to analyze data and predict load patterns. The AI models, developed by Polish software company Affexy, will help Enea Operator better understand the load on the network and identify factors that affect its variability.
The project involves three main steps:
1. Data analysis: The AI models will analyze data to understand the load on the network and identify patterns that drive it.
2. Data processing: The acquired data will be processed to enable efficient analysis by the AI models.
3. Reporting and recommendations: A report will be generated with conclusions from the analysis, along with suggestions for optimizing the data collection process and improving the quality of forecasts.
Enea Operator expects the project to bring several benefits, including:
- Better understanding of the network load and its patterns
- Improved network management
- Testing of advanced AI techniques in real-world conditions
The project is part of Enea Operator's efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and introduce new solutions to improve the quality and security of supply. The company has also secured a PLN1 billion ($255 million) investment loan from the European Investment Bank to support its distribution works, which include:
- Modernizing and constructing almost 8,000km of medium and low voltage grids
- Installing 2.4 million smart meters
- Connecting 140,000 new customers
- Upgrading transformers by 633MVA
- Connecting 4.3GW of new renewable generation capacity
The project demonstrates Enea Operator's commitment to leveraging innovative technologies to improve the efficiency and reliability of its power grid.