Digital transformation is accelerating across the global energy sector, with experts at the World Internet of Things Convention 2025 highlighting how AI, big data, blockchain and IoT are reshaping system operations and market structures. Speakers at the Beijing event stressed that digital energy is becoming a central driver of efficiency, transparency and sustainability, underpinning a broader shift toward a fully integrated energy digital economy.

Industry leaders noted that the convergence of digital technologies is enabling capabilities once considered out of reach. Smart microgrid projects in Southeast Asia now provide real time monitoring in remote locations, support renewable deployment and expand the global footprint of Chinese energy technologies. Over 130 countries have committed to carbon neutrality, accelerating the spread of digital solutions into emerging markets and reinforcing the influence of digital energy on international governance.

China’s policy push is rapidly advancing this trend. A national plan released in September 2025 sets the goal of building a unified energy AI innovation system by 2027 and achieving world leading AI applications by 2030. The sector is already seeing practical benefits. AI is improving forecasting accuracy for generation and consumption, enabling intelligent dispatch, enhancing fault detection and supporting operational decisions through large model driven systems.

Despite progress, significant barriers remain. Experts pointed to legacy infrastructure that cannot support modern sensors, data security concerns in cross border energy transactions and long investment cycles that limit returns in developing markets. Proposed solutions include open digital platforms, stronger international standards and innovation ecosystems that help smaller firms scale globally.

With representatives from more than 80 countries, the convention underscored digital energy’s growing role in shaping a more resilient and interconnected global energy system.

Continue to the full article for a deeper examination of these global shifts.