The energy world is going through a profound transformation as two trends reshape the energy system: decarbonisation and digitalisation. Which role can digitalization play to meet sustainable energy needs? Digital technologies are important for sustainability, as they can be a key enabler of decarbonisation by helping to integrate higher shares of renewables in the energy system. The electricity sector and smart grids are possible targets of this digital transformation, but ultimately all sectors across both energy supply and demand will be affected. Digitalization could also play an important role in fostering energy access in developing countries, allowing a leapfrog of traditional energy systems. Laura Cozzi may lead us in understanding these new developments as she is Head of Energy Demand Outlook Division for the World Energy Outlook at International Energy Agency (IEA) and co-directed, with Dave Turk, the study on “Digitalization & Energy”, published by IEA in November 2017.

Laura Cozzi is Head of Energy Demand Division, World Energy Outlook at International Energy Agency and member of the FEEM Scientific Advisory Board. 

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The “Thinking Ahead Lectures” are periodical meetings with outstanding keynote speeches (45 min.) followed by an open discussion to detect signs of new trends, research pathways and innovations.