News

AES working with X, the moonshot factory to develop new grid virtualization technologies in renewable optimization push

The AES Corporation and X, the moonshot factory began collaborating this week on tools capable of simulating and virtualizing AES’ distribution grids in Indiana and Ohio, making it easier for the company to build and operate various clean energy resources.

“One of the biggest obstacles to shifting to a renewable and reliable electric system is having a complete real-time picture of what is happening on the electric grid,” Audrey Zibelman, vice president and general manager of X’s electric grid team, said. “We are developing new computational and virtualization tools designed to give everyone who manages and operates the grid the ability to plan, build, and manage a clean and resilient grid.”

Such technologies would operate within near real-time, and in so doing, represent an effort to improve testing and reliability, optimize the grid and increase efficiency. This could make it easier to build and operate additional energy sources, potentially reducing costs along the way as well.

“We believe the future of energy is clean, reliable, affordable, and accessible to all. By combining X’s technical expertise with our industry experience and insights, we’re accelerating that future,” Kristina Lund, AES President for U.S. Utilities, said. “We are proud to be among the first to embrace these grid virtualization tools from X in our smart grid strategy. Our goal is to build a modern and green grid to benefit all.”

For the partners, this represents the latest component in a 10-year strategic partnership formed between AES and Google beginning in 2019. X, the moonshot factory, was formerly known as Google X. This partnership is built on Google Cloud technology, using it to power new ideas for energy distribution and management, while AES provides all-day carbon-free energy for Google data centers throughout Virginia.

Chris Galford

Recent Posts

Natural gas meter replacements coming to Jefferson City, Missouri

After 20 years, Ameren Missouri will upgrade natural gas meters throughout Jefferson City, Mo., this spring, switching to modules that…

10 hours ago

U.S. Departments of Energy and Labor release national guidelines for battery machine apprentices

In a joint effort, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Labor (DOL) released National Guideline Standards for the Battery…

10 hours ago

NARUC issues new report for state commissioners on EV infrastructure funding program

The National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) released a report to help state commissions on their roles related to…

10 hours ago

Entergy Louisiana lays out strategic blueprint for building its electric infrastructure

Entergy Louisiana has developed a strategic blueprint for building new electric infrastructure that meets the needs of its service territory.…

10 hours ago

Limestone Ridge Project brings greater reliability to Southeast Missouri

In collaboration with Wabash Valley Power Alliance (WVPA), Ameren Transmission finished work on the Limestone Ridge Project at the end…

1 day ago

Consumers Energy partners with Muskegon County for 250 MW solar facility in Michigan

Beginning in April, Consumers Energy of Michigan, the Muskegon County Resource Recovery Center, and Moorland Township will work together to…

1 day ago

This website uses cookies.