Net zero innovation: Exploring technology pathways towards net zero

1. Progress towards net zero is increasingly reliant on technology as a key enabler 

With 60% of the event attendees viewing advanced technology as critical to achieve a sustainable position for their organisation, the stage was set for an in depth exploration of the crossovers between artificial intelligence (AI), innovation and sustainability.

One of the topics explored how AI can significantly contribute to environmental efforts. Ai Dash, for example, is a software that monitors and reports on vegetation growth and helps organisations like National Grid identify where vegetation cutting needs to occur, which is one of the largest time and cost consuming elements to maintenance.

Advanced technology has also enabled the wind farm industry to optimise resource allocation and operate efficiently. AI systems can analyse data to predict turbine failures, summarise maintenance manuals and schedule repairs.

Challenges identified during the discussion were the scale and speed required to achieve net zero: this is where advanced technology becomes indispensable. 

3. Tinder for wind plays matchmaker for local communities  

Panellists emphasised viewing sustainability as an opportunity rather than simply a compliance requirement. By matching business opportunities with sustainability goals, companies can not only benefit the planet but also drive innovation and create value for stakeholders.

Deepak Ravindran highlighted the use of software to engage audiences in making positive, sustainable changes, sharing an example of Octopus Energy’s Winder platform. This tech platform matches available land with community support, grid capacity, and wind data, and has been dubbed ‘Tinder for Wind.’ The app identified 2.3 GW of potential new British onshore wind energy, enough to provide homegrown, cheap, green energy for 1.85 million homes. By innovating and gamifying this software, Octopus Energy engages its audience in the mission and facilitates significant advances in net zero transitions. Additionally, Octopus has a programme that awards points to customers who use less energy, therefore increasing brand affinity while promoting sustainability. The company is not investing billions in these initiatives but is instead prioritising innovation with the resources it has.

The UK is committed to reaching net zero by 2050, meaning the total greenhouse gas emissions will be equal to the emissions removed from the atmosphere. Digital Catapult is supporting businesses transition to net zero by fostering ecosystems of innovators and industry experts and supporting the drive to adopt advanced technologies.