What does AI do in a smart grid, and why is it becoming essential?

AI helps grid operators make better decisions by rapidly processing huge volumes of data from sensors, smart meters, weather forecasts and operational systems. In practical terms, it improves load forecasting, spots patterns humans and traditional models can miss, and supports real-time control so the grid can respond to sudden changes in demand or generation. It is becoming essential because the electricity system is changing quickly: renewables add variability, extreme weather is more common, and new large loads such as AI data centres can appear and shift at speed. AI enables operators to move from reacting after the fact to preparing in advance, improving reliability while unlocking efficiency savings.

How does AI improve load forecasting compared with traditional forecasting models?

Traditional forecasting generally relies on mathematical models tuned using historic demand curves and seasonal patterns. That works well on “normal” days, but it can struggle when something unfamiliar happens and there is no relevant historical reference, such as unusual weather or a sudden shift in how people use electricity. AI models learn from complex, multi-source data and can adapt as conditions change, making them stronger at recognising and predicting atypical behaviour. The goal is not to dismiss legacy models, but to reduce the growing gap between forecast and reality on the days when errors are most costly, helping operators run the system more efficiently and avoid serious disruptions.

Can AI help prevent blackouts and improve grid reliability?

Yes, but it does so by strengthening preparedness rather than acting as a magic switch. More accurate, faster forecasting supports better scheduling of generation, storage and flexibility, and helps operators anticipate stress on the network before it becomes critical. AI can also support dynamic grid management by analysing conditions in near real time and recommending actions that keep frequency and supply–demand balance stable. Importantly, utilities treat this carefully because the consequences of mistakes are severe. AI works best as part of a broader resilience toolkit alongside established forecasting, market signals and experienced operational oversight, so decisions remain robust even when the system behaves in unexpected ways.

What can we learn from Hydro-Québec’s use of AI for load forecasting?

Hydro-Québec provides a clear example of how AI is adopted safely and pragmatically. After a proof of concept using a neural network on a single substation, the utility invested in years of research before deploying deep neural networks into production. It now uses AI for short-term forecasting within a 36-hour window, hourly forecasts 10–12 days ahead using meteorologists’ forecasts, and even longer outlooks based on “historic normal” weather values. Crucially, it runs AI alongside legacy models to compare outputs and flag significant discrepancies for human review. During a heatwave, one legacy model needed major corrections while the AI model successfully anticipated an unusual demand pattern, illustrating where AI can add the most value.

How can AI data centres support grid flexibility rather than simply adding demand?

AI data centres can be a difficult load to predict, particularly during model training, which can consume substantial power. However, they can also become a flexible resource if their workloads are orchestrated in response to grid conditions. Trials such as National Grid’s work with Emerald.AI explore “smart mediation”, where software observes data centre workloads, identifies which tasks are non-critical, and adjusts computing activity to shape electricity demand. This can include ramping down by a defined number of megawatts, holding reductions for an agreed period, and ramping back up gradually to avoid “snapback” that can destabilise the grid. Done well, it creates a more symbiotic relationship between digital growth and system reliability.

Power Technology

Vestas gets 390MW wind turbine order in South Korea

The company will supply 26 of its V236-15.0MW offshore wind turbines.

Danish wind turbine maker Vestas has secured a 390MW contract for the Shinan-Ui offshore wind project in Jeollanam Province, South Korea.

Under the contract, Vestas will supply 26 of its V236-15.0MW offshore wind turbines.

Additionally, the company has signed a 20-year service agreement.

Deliveries are planned to start in 2027, with the wind farm expected to enter commercial operation in 2028.

The offshore wind development is being carried out by Shinan-Ui Offshore Wind, a consortium formed by Hanwha Ocean, SK Eternix, Korea Midland Power Co. (KOMIPO), Future Energy Fund, and Hyundai Engineering & Construction.

Hanwha Ocean Eco Energy and Industrial EPC Division head Jong Hyun Son said: “Hanwha Ocean will take a leading role in the Korean offshore wind industry through the successful execution of the Shinan-Ui Offshore Wind Project.

“The Shinan-Ui Project represents Korea’s first utility-scale offshore wind development to fully incorporate global standards, including the latest-generation offshore wind turbines, wind turbine installation vessels, offshore transformer stations, and onshore grid connection systems.

“We are pleased to partner with Vestas for the supply of cutting-edge wind turbine technology and value the strong local supply chain supporting foundations, cables, electrical components, and transportation and installation works.”

This is Vestas’ first offshore wind contract in South Korea, aligning with South Korea’s clean energy transition plans.

The V236-15.0 MW turbine gained type certification in 2023.

Since the product’s launch, Vestas has obtained more than 9GW of firm orders worldwide.

Vestas Asia Pacific president Purvin Patel said: “We are proud to partner with Hanwha Ocean on this milestone project in South Korea and introduce our industry-leading V236-15.0 MW offshore wind turbines to South Korean waters.

“These turbines, featuring world-class technology, are already being deployed in their inaugural European projects, with production ramping up to enable large-scale global deployment.

“Vestas brings decades of offshore experience and together with our customers, we are committed to driving the large-scale deployment of offshore wind in South Korea and delivering clean, secure and homegrown energy for the country.”

Earlier this month, Vestas received seven turbine orders in Germany totalling 273MW.