Data Analytics for the Grid of the Future

Innovation has always been at the heart of Axpo’s strategy, with collaboration with start-ups playing a key role. In an era where digitalisation and data are redefining energy management, Axpo has launched a new challenge in the area of "Data Analytics for Grid." This initiative aims to collaborate with start-ups to jointly develop innovative solutions to optimise the electricity grid.

Axpo operates an extensive and critical grid infrastructure, with around 2,200 kilometres of high-voltage lines. Currently, about 100,000 data signals are collected from grid operations, and Axpo is actively seeking scalable solutions to further utilise this valuable information. How might we refine grid data into “gold data” and use it to uncover insights for a smarter, more efficient, and reliable electricity network?

The challenge is directed at start-ups and innovative thinkers developing solutions to optimise grid management through the use of data. The focus is on improving grid stability, increasing efficiency in energy distribution, and seamlessly integrating renewable energy sources. Interested start-ups can apply via this link.

"We’re sitting on a treasure trove of underutilised data. With data analytics, we hope to identify errors, patterns, and trends. The more data we gather, the more valuable insights we gain, helping us optimise investments in our grid and continue to ensure a reliable electricity supply," says Till Richter, Programme Manager Digital & Innovation at Axpo Grid.

Promoting Innovation with "Calls for Innovation"

As a leading energy company committed to sustainability, Axpo has joined the Net-Zero Hub to drive innovations toward net-zero together with Bluelion and other companies, start-ups, universities, and authorities. This partnership brings together Axpo’s expertise in the energy sector, the knowledge and strength of other member companies and start-ups, and Bluelion’s entrepreneurial spirit, creating a strong synergy that benefits our organisations and society.

One of the most significant ways Axpo benefits from the partnership with Bluelion is through "Open Innovation." Bluelion provides a platform for scouting, mentoring, and investing in suitable start-ups. This allows us to tap into the Hub’s ecosystem and drive meaningful change. By collaborating with other companies and start-ups, we gain access to new ideas, cutting-edge technologies, and innovative business models that can help accelerate the transition to a net-zero future.

Collaborating for a Greener World

Through such collaborations with start-ups, Axpo aims to lead the energy transition, shape the future of sustainable energy, and contribute to a greener and more prosperous world. The innovation calls are just the beginning. Axpo is committed to further advancing its open innovation activities with additional calls for innovation and other formats to harness the entrepreneurial spirit of start-ups and accelerate the transition to net-zero. In addition to start-ups, Axpo will continue to work with universities and other partners on open innovation to develop and implement innovative solutions together.

Positive Experience from the Last Call for Innovation

Last year, Axpo achieved significant progress through two calls for innovation in the areas of hydrogen and BIM@Grid.

In the hydrogen sector, a project partner was found for a proof of concept (PoC), and after a short definition and negotiation phase, the PoC work began in the summer. The goal of this project is to activate the Swiss hydrogen market and promote networking between producers and consumers. An expansion to other markets is under consideration, and the PoC is expected to be completed this year.

As part of the second call, the BIM@Grid Challenge, the start-up vGIS made the biggest impact. It was particularly important that the PoC be managed by the department that would later work with the solution.

Axpo hopes that the vGIS solution will simplify site documentation and provide better and more accurate access to information about where cables are buried. The initial impression of the solution is promising, and now the focus is on determining how and to what extent it can be integrated into existing processes. Brian Müller, Specialist in Power Line Construction at Axpo Grid, says enthusiastically, "vGIS can project all our digital assets into the real world using augmented reality. This application is currently generating a lot of interest in our division." The PoC will run until March, after which a conclusion will be drawn.