The aim of the "Data4Grid" project carried out by the German Energy Agency (dena) was to investigate the potential of using data analysis and artificial intelligence in the electricity distribution grid. The core of the project was to identify new opportunities and challenges arising from the integration of these technologies into the electricity grid and to assess their potential impact on the critical infrastructure. The results of the project are now available online as a final report.

One of the key findings of the report is that AI has the potential to revolutionize the power grid by enabling more efficient and reliable operations. For example, AI can be used to optimize the management of decentralized energy resources such as solar and wind farms and improve the resilience of the power grid to disturbances and outages. AI can also be used to increase the efficiency of the power grid by predicting and preventing system failures and optimizing the use of energy storage systems. However, the use of AI in the electricity grid also harbors potential risks, which are addressed in the report. These risks must be carefully weighed up and appropriate measures taken to mitigate them.

As part of the project, Fraunhofer IEE contributed a scientific report on the topic of "Data analysis and AI in the power distribution grid" with a focus on its use within critical infrastructure. An increasingly decentralized, volatile generation structure and flexible loads pose new challenges for grid operators. The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential benefits and risks associated with the use of AI in the electricity grid. It examines the role of data in the energy system and the various legal frameworks that regulate the use of AI in the industry.

In addition to the expert opinion, the final report contains an implementation guide developed by Fraunhofer IEE for innovative AI applications in the power grid. This covers the key steps and considerations that are important in the various phases of introducing data analytics in a company, as well as real-life use cases to illustrate the process.

"Overall, the Data4Grid project and its final report provide valuable insights into the potential of AI in the electricity grid and the benefits and risks associated with its use. The results underline the need for a comprehensive approach to the integration of AI into the power grid, including a thorough understanding of the regulatory framework and the importance of data management and security," concludes Dr. Sebastian Wende-von Berg from Fraunhofer IEE.