A team of researchers from ENEA, the Bari Polytechnic and the Roma Tre University have developed RAFAEL, an innovative project that uses artificial intelligence to prevent electrical blackouts caused by heat waves.
Thanks to advanced machine learning techniques and data analysis, the goal of the project is to ensure a stable and continuous energy supply during peak demand in large cities.
RAFAEL therefore aims to protect the electricity grid from extreme weather phenomena, such as temperatures above 40°C, thus helping to improve the resilience of the grid and prevent breakdowns.
Let's see in more detail what RAFAEL consists of and why it is a demonstration of how AI can revolutionize the way we live.
AI at the service of the electricity grid and against heat waves
In large urban areas, the energy distribution infrastructure is particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events and natural disasters. During heat waves, the electricity grid is subjected to a strong pressure due to the increase in energy demand, with an increase in failures in the cable joints. The RAFAEL project aims to improve the resilience of the electricity grid and prevent failures through targeted data analysis and the use of AI.
The RAFAEL project is based on several strategies and actions:
- Data analysis: Grid data is collected and analyzed, including historical fault data and energy demand patterns e average light consumption. This analysis provides in-depth insight into network vulnerabilities and hotspots.
- Use of AI: Artificial intelligence is used to analyze data and identify patterns and correlations that may indicate situations of imminent risk. Predictive models are developed to predict potential failures.
- Failure prediction system: Thanks to predictive models, a failure prediction system is implemented. This system constantly monitors the electricity grid and promptly warns the grid manager of any imminent critical situations.
- Timely corrective measures: The network manager, having access to failure forecasts, can take timely corrective measures to prevent damage to infrastructure and inconvenience for citizens and businesses. For example, it can plan preventive maintenance or redistribute energy distribution to avoid overloads.
Through the implementation of the RAFAEL project, it aims to improve the resilience of the electricity grid and ensure reliable energy distribution even during critical periods such as summer heat waves.
Artificial intelligence to make renewables more efficient
THEartificial intelligence (AI) plays an important role in optimizing energy usage renewable, such as wind and photovoltaics. Some key points regarding the use of AI in optimizing the use of renewable energy are listed below:
- Data analysis: AI makes it possible to analyze meteorological data, energy consumption and production from renewable sources. This in-depth analysis helps you understand changes in energy demand and adjust energy storage and distribution accordingly.
- Energy storage planning: Thanks to AI, it is possible to schedule the storage ofthe energy optimally produced from renewable sources. This means that excess energy is stored to be used when demand is highest, improving the overall efficiency of the energy system.
- Adaptability to changes in demand: AI makes it possible to monitor changes in energy demand in real time. Based on this information, AI can adjust the production and distribution of renewable energy to meet demand efficiently.
- Reduction of dependence on fossil fuels: The optimization of the use of renewable energies through theIA helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels. By making the most of renewable sources, the need to use energy produced from unsustainable sources is reduced.
- Integration of large batteries and AI: The integration of large batteries into the energy infrastructure, combined with the use of AI, represents an important step towards a resilient and clean electricity grid. Batteries allow excess energy to be stored and released when needed, while AI optimizes the use of this energy based on changes in demand.
In conclusion
AI plays a key role in optimizing the use of renewable energy, improving theefficiency , sustainability of sources such asAeolian and PV.
The RAFAEL project therefore exploits theartificial intelligence to prevent electrical blackouts caused by heat waves, improving grid resilience and ensuring a stable energy supply in large cities. L'use of AI could be extended also to optimizing the use of renewable energies, making sources such as wind and photovoltaics more efficient and sustainable. These developments pose important questions for the future: how can artificial intelligence further contribute to the resilience of electricity grids? And what other sectors will benefit from the application of AI to address challenges related to energy resources?
Staff BlogInnovazione.it: PrestoEnergia
