AGENDA TOPICS IN FOCUS
Digital Power Plants
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
Blockchain Technology
Energy Storage Solutions
Smart Grid Innovations
Networked IoT Sensors
Industry 4.0 Technologies
Fusion of Physical and Digital Infrastructure
Asset Performance Management
Capacity Building in Transmission Systems
Electrification and ElectriCities
Sustainable Urban Mobility
Vehicle-to-Grid Management
Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
Productivity-Boosting Policy Initiatives
Cybersecurity Measures and Digital Resilience
Cutting-Edge Customer Engagement Platforms
Smart Water Management
Innovations in Smart Water Infrastructure
Water Quality Monitoring Technologies
Water Conservation Breakthroughs
Sustainable Investment and Financing
for Digitalisation
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
and Smart Meters
Cutting-edge Data Analytics and AI for improved
data management and energy efficiency
Monday 16 September 2024
Tuesday 17 September 2024
Wednesday 18 September 2024
THEME: PIONEERING THE DIGITAL ENERGY REVOLUTION IN UTILITIES
14:00 - 14:40
Bolstering resilience in power generation with digital power plants
Panel Discussion
Power generation, like numerous other industries, is undergoing a significant digitisation shift. Research indicates that even the most sophisticated participants have only implemented a limited number of isolated digitalisation initiatives, which often lack direct business value. Nevertheless, the integration of new technologies with conventional methods can result in significant advantages in the areas of energy efficiency, health, safety, security, and the environment (HSSE).
14:40 - 15:00
Decarbonising water assets
Innovation Showcase
The impacts of climate change are significantly harsher on global water ecosystems. For water and wastewater utilities, aging networks, rising population, and shrinking freshwater supplies are critical challenges that must be addressed near-term to ensure long-term results. Rapid decarbonisation of the water sector is imperative and achievable. What are water utilities doing to decarbonise their assets and operations? Are these initiatives aligned with SDGs? How does this impact long-term water security, particularly in vulnerable communities?
15:00 - 15:20
Exploring the Water Reclamation Programme
Innovation Showcase
Dubai's evolution into a premier city is driven by a sustainability strategy emphasising alignment with local and global climate initiatives. Central to this strategy is Dubai Municipality's Water Reclamation Program, which has achieved a remarkable 90% water reuse rate. By 2030, Dubai aims for 100% water recycling, aligning with its Net-Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. With a vision for a green economy, Dubai sets ambitious targets to further diminish reliance on desalination, showcasing the synergy between economic growth and environmental stewardship. Dubai Municipality share insights on the program and the key role played in meeting the rising demand for reclaimed water across diverse sectors and fostering sustainable water resource management.
15:20 - 15:40
Beyond batteries: advancements in energy storage
Innovation Showcase
As the world shifts towards a greener energy future, the necessity for effective and adaptable energy storage solutions is more pressing than ever. While batteries are instrumental in storing and distributing energy, particular in areas where renewable sources are intermittent and for EVs, the future of energy storage will require exploring novel alternatives that can meet the increasing need for dependable, economical, and long-duration energy supply.
15:40 - 16:00
Smart grid innovations - Onesait Grid - Smart Engineering Center
Innovation Showcase
Increasing points of supply and regulation of the power sector are some of the main challenges for utilities, as the time available to design electrical solutions and resolve gets shorter. Minsait's Onesait Smart Engineering Center (SEC) addresses this issue by automating the entire supply request process. Let us explore how this delivers comprehensive electrical solutions in both graphical and alphanumerical formats, along with the necessary budget and blueprints, accelerating the entire process.
16:00 - 16:20
Smart meters changing the game
Innovation Showcase
As electricity grid demand increases, the implementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) helps in improving efficiency and ensuring a more dependable energy flow. AMI smart meter platforms are engineered to integrate and transmit data, enabling enhanced services across networks and empowering customers with greater choice and control over their energy consumption.
16:20 - 17:00
Empowering next generation talent to build next generation technologies
Panel discussion
For an inclusive energy transition, the next generation must be equipped with the tools, technology, and knowledge to foster clean energy ecosystems. Leveraging unique perspectives from young voices and empowering them with the necessary investments and platforms, the industry can bolster innovation in clean technologies, unlocking new value chains, multi-lateral partnerships, and new opportunities to bridge knowledge and experience gap in the industry.
17:00 - 17:20
Advancements in hydrogen fuel cells
Innovation showcase
While the infrastructure for hydrogen fuelling stations is in nascent stages, limiting adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles, hydrogen fuel cells offer a promising solution for future mobility. This innovation showcase will explore recent advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technology, discuss the progress necessary to reduce cost, improve efficiency, and encourage wider adoption of the technology in the near future.
17:20 - 17:40
Revolutionising energy efficiency with data
Innovation Showcase
Energy efficiency is paramount for cutting operational expenses, mitigating climate change, and advancing sustainability. Data analytics is instrumental in achieving these goals, offering insights to pinpoint energy-saving prospects, allocate resources efficiently, and predict energy requirements. Through data utilisation, companies can enact superior energy management strategies, resulting in enhanced performance and diminished carbon footprint. Hear from industry leaders on best practices in leveraging data analytics to optimise energy consumption and management.
THEME: BRIDGING PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL FRONTIERS
11:00 - 11:40
Synergising Industry 4.0 Technologies
Panel Discussion
Power and water utilities face mounting pressure to modernise in response to demands of energy transition as well as challenges like aging infrastructure, widespread adoption of renewable energy, and evolving consumer expectations. Energy 4.0 technologies and cloud-based applications offer utilities enhanced visibility, flexibility, and control to effectively manage and use their data for predictive analytics. Discover how AI, IIoT, and automation are shaping the future of utilities.
11:40 - 12:00
Zero-emission hydrogen production: a dream or reality?
Innovation Showcase
No-carbon production of hydrogen without is crucial to achieve net-zero emissions. While there are advancements in producing low-carbon hydrogen, methane pyrolysis offers a viable solution to producing zero-emission hydrogen. This, however, comes with substantial energy consumption as methane pyrolysis requires significant thermal energy to produce hydrogen. Are existing technologies the right pathway to produce zero-emission hydrogen? What innovations and investments are required? What does the future for zero-carbon hydrogen look like?
12:00 - 12:20
Fostering sustainable cities and urban mobility through electrification
Innovation Session
According to the World Economic Forum, cities produce over 70% of all carbon emissions, and with urban populations set to hit over 7 billion by 2050, this number is expected to increase significantly. Failure to act will significantly worsen emissions, impacting health and worsening climate change. Compact, electrified cities can greatly reduce emissions and costs. Shifting urban mobility towards compact cities built around walking, cycling, and public transit alongside large-scale transport electrification will have significant environmental, social and economic impacts. Future-ready net-zero buildings, integrating IoT and energy management technologies, can accelerate decarbonisation while optimising operational energy consumption, and creating efficient and sustainable operations.
12:20 - 13:00
Securing clean technologies supply chain
Innovation Session
Secure, resilient and sustainable supply chains are central to global energy transition as the world shifts focus from the supply of fossil fuels to the supply of the minerals, materials and manufacturing capacity needed to deliver clean energy technologies. Existing and future supply chain needs for key technologies – including solar PV, batteries for electric vehicles and low-carbon hydrogen – will evolve as the transition accelerates and countries race to meet their net-zero targets. How can governments and industry align to capitalise on opportunities as well as address the vulnerabilities in securing the supply chain? What impact will ‘deglobalisation’ and ‘localisation’ of manufacturing capabilities have on supply chains?
14:00 - 14:20
Optimising energy flows with vehicle-to-grid management
Innovation Showcase
Electrification of transportation systems is critical for the energy transition. Through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, EV batteries can double up as mobile power stations, providing electricity back to the grid. This innovation transforms EVs into backup power systems, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and offering financial benefits to drivers.
14:20 - 14:40
Waste-to-X technologies for clean energy
Innovation Showcase
The world generates over 2.11 billion metric tonnes of municipal solid waste annually, with volumes expected to grow by another 70% by 2050 creating a major environmental issue. Managing waste is critical to reduce emissions as well as decrease landfill. Waste-to-X technologies can help manage waste while producing critical outputs including Sustainable Aviation Fuels, Biofuels, hydrogen, and renewable fuels amongst other resources.
14:40 - 15:00
Unlocking transformation with digital twins
Innovation Showcase
Data is at the center of the power grid, and utilities are spending a significant amount of time and resources to manually maintain, update, and exchange information amongst different systems. With the number of data points to achieve optimal system performance significantly increasing, data accuracy, model complexity and automation are crucial to maintain operational excellence. In this presentation, we explore the opportunities for unlocking transformation in utilities with digital twins, and how digital twins can help reduce data silos and provide real time data for efficient operations.
15:00 - 15:20
Pressure Measurement of Hydrogen rich environment
Innovation Showcase
In this session, we will delve into Vega's successful deployment of over 500 pressure transmitters at a major hydrogen refueling station in France, which have been operational for more than seven years without gold-plated diaphragms. Despite hydrogen's unique properties that can compromise measurement accuracy and cause hydrogen embrittlement in materials like Hastelloy, Vega's Vegabar 82/83 dry cell pressure transmitters have demonstrated exceptional performance. Unlike the widely marketed gold-plated diaphragm solution, which is necessary only for a limited number of extreme temperature applications, Vegabar 82/83 provides reliable hydrogen pressure measurement. The presentation will explore the advantages of dry cell measurement technology in hydrogen-rich environments.
15:20 - 15:40
Optimising water management with technology
Project Showcase
The adoption of digital technologies has the potential to democratise processes such as data acquisition, analysis, long-term planning, capacity building, and the efficient operation of both network and non-network services. Nevertheless, for these technological advancements to contribute significantly to the objective of ensuring universal access to safe water and sanitation, it is crucial that these solutions are implemented and tailored at the local level. Explore the impact of digitalisation on water utilities, unlocking new possibilities for efficient resource management, enhanced infrastructure, and sustainable water practices.
15:40 - 16:00
MediSun RED Tech: Paving the way towards Blue Energy, Zero Carbon and Zero Brine
Project Showcase
As global freshwater demand escalates with population growth, desalination emerges as a vital solution to combat water scarcity in regions abundant with brackish or saline water sources. The landscape of desalination is evolving with emerging technologies that promise economically viable alternatives to traditional thermal desalination and reverse osmosis methods. Explore the forefront of desalination advancements, emphasizing energy-efficient techniques that are pivotal in achieving zero carbon emissions and minimizing brine discharge. Discover how these innovations are crucial for promoting water sustainability, particularly in arid regions where effective water resource management is paramount.
16:00 - 16:30
Power to gas technologies for flexibility
Panel Discussion
With the rise of renewable energies in the power grid, efficiently managing their supply and demand is crucial. Power-to-gas (PtG) technology, which converts green electricity into hydrogen or methane via electrolysis, offers a promising solution. This gas can be stored, transported, and used flexibly, utilising existing gas infrastructures. PtG serves as a key link between electricity and gas systems, enabling CO2-free energy generation and enhancing renewable energy integration. The session will explore the advantages of PtG, including its storability, infrastructure use, and cost reduction benefits, highlighting its role in relieving pressure on traditional power sectors.
THEME: SUSTAINABLE STEPS, DIGITAL GUARDIANS, AND CUSTOMER CONNECTIONS
11:00 - 11:40
Safeguarding the digital frontier
Panel Discussion
As utilities advance in the modernisation and enhancement of their operational technology (OT) networks, the necessity towards integrating them with information technology (IT) networks intensifies. While the advantages of consolidating a utility's IT and OT networks into a unified operational framework are evident, the growing concern over security threats and evolving security and privacy standards must be addressed. Hear from industry leaders at the forefront of digital protection as they provide expertise on cybersecurity measures and strategies for digital resilience.
11:40 - 12:00
Water conservation strategies critical to a low carbon future
Innovation Showcase
The critical connection between water usage and energy consumption is often overlooked, highlighting the importance of water conservation in decarbonisation efforts. Despite emission variations based on water sources and distribution methods, it's noteworthy that every cubic meter of water consumed generates around 10.5 kg of carbon emissions, equating to 85 pounds of carbon per 1,000 gallons of water. Smart irrigation systems and technologies will play a crucial role in minimising water wastage.
12:00 - 12:20
Ensuring resilience through smart water infrastructure
Innovation Showcase
Smart water systems offer a transformative solution by optimising water usage, efficiently managing resources, and promoting sustainable practices, thereby enhancing cities' adaptability to climate challenges. Real-time monitoring of water quality ensures heightened security, enabling swift detection of threats and the implementation of timely contingency plans. This session will look into the critical role of smart water systems in strengthening the resilience of communities and cities, safeguarding our future in the face of evolving environmental pressures.
12:20 - 12:40
Exploring the water recycle market
Innovation Showcase
Communities and industries are adopting water recycling and reuse systems to conserve freshwater resources, alleviate strain on supplies, and to combat water scarcity. These systems offer alternative water sources, particularly crucial in water-stressed or drought-prone regions. Additionally, water recycling minimises pollution and environmental impact, while reducing energy consumption and costs associated with freshwater extraction and treatment. Discover innovative clean technologies revolutionising water management practices.
12:40 - 13:00
Revolutionising electrical utility monitoring
Innovation Showcase
The future of cleantech in utilities promises sustained growth, pioneering innovations, and a shift towards a more sustainable energy framework. Embracing cleantech solutions holds immense potential for environmental, economic, and societal benefits. Traditionally, utilities use manual labor or camera-mounted fleet vehicles to manage power disruptions. However, a groundbreaking technology emerges—a fully autonomous on-wire robotic monitoring tool—that autonomously navigates overhead distribution lines, offering comprehensive grid coverage without human intervention or fleet vehicles, setting a global precedent in utility management.
13:00 - 13:20
Leading the way towards zero carbon heating and cooling systems
Case Study
Heating and cooling, or thermal energy, demand urgent attention in decarbonisation efforts, being the largest form of energy end use globally and a major source of carbon emissions compared to power and transport. Various low-carbon solutions are available across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors worldwide, but many require scaling up or further research and development (R&D). District heating and cooling present immense potential to transform cities' climate goals, offering opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and realise cost savings through greener methods. Explore solutions to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable future.
13:20 - 13:45
Redefining the 3 pillars of customer experience - data, interactivity, personalisation
Fireside Chat
The essence of a positive customer experience hinges on three pillars: data, interaction, and personalisation. Customers expect utility companies to leverage their energy consumption data to deliver personalised services that save money and reduce carbon footprint. They seek guidance from companies capable of tailoring offerings to align with their energy habits, fostering a virtuous path towards sustainability. By integrating data-driven customer experiences at every stage, utilities can fortify their position in a transforming energy landscape. Explore platforms revolutionising the utility customer experience, nurturing engagement and satisfaction.
Monday 16 September 2024
Tuesday 17 September 2024
Wednesday 18 September 2024
Insights Report - The role of smart grids in optimising energy distribution and improving grid resilience
The decentralisation and decarbonisation of the energy system are driving the energy transition, with expected growth in renewables, battery storage, electric vehicles, and heat pumps. The challenge is to integrate bi-directional power and communications as generation and consumption occur at multiple network nodes, necessitating compatible grid technologies and infrastructure.
Produced by Frost & Sullivan
