Energy transformation increasingly requires new solutions. Effectively fighting global warming or combating the effects of the energy crisis need a wider application of digital tools and the use of data. This primarily involves faster digital transformation of the energy sector, but also the implementation of digital solutions in our homes or workplaces. These needs are addressed by OVHcloud and EIT InnoEnergy’s initiative, the GreenTECH program. Its goal is to raise awareness of better use of data in the energy transition, and to identify startups and projects in this area that, with the support of both partners, can have a real impact on accelerating change.

Software optimization requires a much smaller but still necessary investment than most investments in physical infrastructure. What’s more, it can also lead to better understanding, improve predictability and generate savings. The world of IT is flexible enough to enable new business models, unlocking the potential for action for energy companies.

“The current energy crisis shows us how important energy is to the development of our economy. More efficient use of it can not only contribute to offsetting the effects of climate change, but also to increasing the energy security of the European Union. The solutions need not be complicated. Many of them are within reach and affordable. The most important thing is that they have the potential to help us all reduce energy consumption and rising energy bills. Whether or not we maintain industrial production in Europe will depend on this” – said Marcin Wasilewski, CEO of EIT InnoEnergy Central Europe. 

“The GreenTECH program created by the two companies makes an ideal synergy – EIT InnoEnergy is a leading European investor in green startups, and OVHcloud shows that a technology company can thrive while respecting the environment. It is also worth emphasizing the European pedigree of both companies and the common goal – the green transformation of Europe, the vision of which we want to realize through joint activities. We want to show that such cooperation can also bring value to the startup world”– adds Natalia Świrska-Załuska, Startup Program Manager for Central and Eastern Europe at OVHcloud.

Developments in technology, including artificial intelligence, can bring the changes we need to reach the next level. The availability of data is the first and most important condition for enabling artificial intelligence. By using AI algorithms and feeding them with data points that we collect from processes, machines or buildings, we can create a digital replica that is an accurate representation of where the data was collected from.

“It is also worth noting that the new technology sector accounts for about 5-9% of global energy consumption and more than 2% of total CO2 emissions, which is more than, for example, the entire aviation industry” – emphasizes Natalia Świrska-Załuska.

“It will also be important to show how to skillfully capitalize on solutions already available. In a word, how to capitalize on the low-hanging fruit that can bring tangible benefits with limited investments in the here and now. The real challenge is to take them to the next level” – adds Marcin Wasilewski.