Google deploys AI to strengthen electricity grids amid rising demand

Google revealed a new artificial intelligence (AI) initiative aimed at helping electricity grid operators tackle mounting pressure from the growing use of electric vehicles, renewable energy and digital infrastructure.

The tech giant is partnering with grid operators globally to deploy its AI technology, which is designed to predict electricity demand and supply with greater precision. The move is part of Google’s broader effort to use its technological capabilities to support critical infrastructure as the world shifts towards cleaner energy.

In the US, Google is working with the non-profit grid operator AES to pilot AI tools that forecast electricity load up to a week in advance. These forecasts help operators plan ahead and maintain grid stability more efficiently. Similar partnerships are underway in Europe and Asia-Pacific.

As part of the initiative, Google is also providing open-source tools and sharing research to enable other energy providers to adopt and customise the technology. The company says its models can reduce forecasting errors by up to 20%, giving grid operators a better chance of avoiding outages or waste.

“AI can play a crucial role in making our energy systems smarter and more sustainable,” said Michael Terrell, Senior Director for Energy and Climate at Google. “By improving demand forecasting, grid operators can make better decisions about where and when to send electricity.”

The project reflects a growing trend in the tech sector: applying AI to real-world infrastructure challenges. With global electricity consumption expected to surge in the coming years, experts say smarter systems are essential to manage the load without compromising reliability or climate goals.

Google’s AI models are built on its extensive work in machine learning and cloud computing, and the company says its approach puts a strong emphasis on transparency and data privacy. While still in early stages, the company believes the technology could play a key role in future-proofing the grid.