Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the energy sector
Details how we aim to regulate the use of AI within the energy sector to make sure it is used safely, responsibly and sustainably.
Our role and responsibilities
The use of AI within the energy sector can help improve planning, management and real-time operation of the energy system.
AI is already being used by the energy sector across England, Scotland and Wales (Great Britain). It can create efficiencies for energy bill payers, energy suppliers and the wider energy sector, but it can have challenges and risks.
The use of AI within the energy sector has a lot of potential, but it must be used safely, responsibly and sustainably. We are working on a framework to make sure that when AI is used energy consumers benefit from it and are protected.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has set out what regulators should do to make sure that the sectors they regulate follow the UK’s AI regulatory principles. Read the government’s white paper about implementing ‘a pro-innovation approach to AI regulation’ on GOV.UK.
AI principles
Our AI policy will be based on the principles set out in the white paper.
They are:
- safety, security and robustness
- transparency and explainability
- fairness
- accountability and governance
- contestability and redress
Helping to reach net zero
AI could play a big part in decarbonising the energy sector, for example it can be used to better predict weather that can help improve solar generation forecasts. Using this technology in this way means there should be less reliance on fossil fuels. This means that the use of AI technology can support the UK government’s medium and long-term net zero targets.
Next steps
We aim to:
- analyse the findings from the call for input and update our approach to regulating AI
- develop AI guidance for energy bill payers, energy companies and organisations
- continue to work with companies and organisations across the energy sector
- continue to research and identify the opportunities and threats associated with use of AI in the energy sector
Get involved
Read our proposals about the use of AI within the energy sector in our call for input.
The call for input closed on 17 May 2024. If you have any questions about our AI regulation work, you can email AIPolicy@ofgem.gov.uk.