AI, Consulting Leaders, Emerging Tech: Top Energy Stories
What Role Will ABB, GM and Others Play in Electrification?
Electrification is a crucial strategy for reducing CO₂ emissions in energy systems according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
The majority of advancements in electrification stem from the transition to electric transportation and the implementation of heat pumps.
To meet these Net Zero Emissions targets by 2050, the IEA says the rate of electrification needs to double by 2030.
Keisuke Sadamori, Director of Energy Markets and Security at IEA, says: “The acceleration of global electricity demand highlights the significant changes taking place in energy systems around the world and the approach of a new Age of Electricity.”
Google has announced a US$9bn expansion of its cloud and AI infrastructure in Virginia, planned through 2026, which includes constructing a new data centre in Chesterfield County.
The financial injection is poised to meet the escalating demands for cloud and AI services.
In parallel with expanding its physical facilities, Google is addressing associated energy challenges with local partners to support the increased infrastructure needs.
“This is an extraordinary time for American innovation,” the company says in its announcement.
“Google is investing in the Commonwealth of Virginia and its residents to unlock substantial economic opportunity for the state and help the US continue to lead the world in AI.”
Energy consulting companies are facilitating the energy transition by providing expert guidance to businesses in managing and optimising energy use, which is crucial for cost reduction, regulatory compliance and sustainability.
These consultants aim to help organisations navigate complex and evolving energy regulations, promoting adherence to policies that reduce carbon footprints and boost renewable energy adoption.
The transition can be facilitated through consultants evaluating, planning and implementing projects such as solar and wind, balancing initial investments with long-term benefits.
Energy Digital has ranked the top ten energy consulting companies that are supporting the sector in the clean energy transition.
The WEF, along with Frontiers and the Dubai Future Foundation, has outlined 10 breakthrough technologies that are making an impact this year in its Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2025 report.
“What makes this report valuable is that we look beyond what these technologies are to envision what they could create,” says Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the WEF.
“The technologies in this edition reveal exciting patterns: combining energy systems with advanced materials, using biological approaches to improve human health, reimagining industrial processes for sustainability and creating new foundations for trust in connected systems.
“Each represents not just a technical advance, but a path towards more resilient and sustainable societies.”
