The energy industry is undergoing a shift towards more electrification and renewable generation sources. This shift presents a need for new solutions as power providers adapt to meet higher energy demands. Utilities will have to adopt new and emerging technologies that connect power infrastructure and improve efficiency in order to provide reliable, low-cost power to end users.
Electrification is Driving Higher Demand for Renewable Energy
Achieving economy-wide net zero emissions by 2050, in accordance with the Paris Climate Agreement, will require the electrification of several industries, including transportation, power, residential and commercial buildings, and manufacturing. Providers need to start preparing for how they’ll meet this higher demand for electricity while shifting to renewable energy sources.
Renewable Generation Sources
In the United States, the shift to renewable sources has focused largely on wind and solar farms, along with recent improvements in storage technology - making this storage option more practical and affordable for some generators and customers. Utilities can expect even more diversification of renewable generation sources in the future.
Emerging Technology for Energy Integration
Utilities are shifting from a model in which we forecast demand and schedule supply, to where we forecast supply and schedule demand. Power providers will need to embrace flexibility in order to capitalize on this shifting dynamic. A variety of emerging technologies will be essential to more efficient use of renewable resources and the grid itself.
Artificial Intelligence
AI is transforming renewable energy management by improving efficiency, lowering costs, and supporting sustainability. It can forecast weather, analyze sensor data, and optimize wind and solar output. AI systems also track supply and demand in real time, helping manage load and grid constraints, while providing insights for smarter planning and investment decisions.
Advanced Transmission
The wind and solar generation are booming. However, large wind and solar sites are often located in less-populated agricultural areas, sometimes hundreds of miles from more densely populated cities and commercial customers. Connecting these consumers to renewable generation will require a combination of new high-voltage transmission line construction and improving the utilization of current transmission lines with Power Flow Controls, Dynamic Line Ratings, and Topology Optimization technologies.
Advancements in Wind Energy
In addition to improvements in transmission for large wind and solar sites, the technology for producing wind power is improving. Advancements include technological upgrades to the blades themselves (such as the material used and the design) for improved aerodynamics and durability, as well as reduced noise. Through research and computer modeling, the wind industry is also making advancements in the positioning of wind turbines to maximize efficiency. These advancements allow for more effective harvesting of wind power to increase production.
Microgrids
When utilized in conjunction with larger regional power grids, microgrids can provide backup energy when the main grid is down. They also support flexible and efficient usage of the grid by enabling the integration of renewables and reducing energy otherwise lost in transmission and distribution.
As technologies evolve, municipal and cooperative clients will need flexible energy management solutions that account for greater reliance on renewables while continuing to prioritize cost and reliability. Through Evergy Energy Partners and our resources, learn more about renewable energy solutions. We recommend that you get in touch today to find solutions that are tailored to you!
Lindsay Freeman
John Sampler: Jun 15, 2026 3:15:00 PM
