U.S. DOE Launches $30 Million Funding Seeking AI To Accelerate Interconnection Process
According to PVTech the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched US$30 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to accelerate the interconnection process for new energy generation.
The Artificial Intelligence for Interconnection (AI4X) programme, as its name implies, seeks solutions that use AI to reduce the time required to review, approve and commission interconnections across the country. The AI4X programme aims to develop partnerships between software developers, grid operators – including regional transmission operators (RTOs) and power marketing administrations – and energy developers.
Interconnection applications are primarily reviewed manually, and are labour-intensive – the use of AI could help improve the application and review process. According to the DOE, over 90% of interconnection applications received by organisations were deficient, which caused delays in correcting the applications.
Under the programme, projects will work to apply existing AI algorithms to the interconnection application process to more quickly identify deficient applications and rapidly notify applicants for resolution.
“Artificial intelligence is an energy solution capable of helping clear an interconnection backlog that will free up new energy sources to ensure consumers have power when and where they need it,” said US secretary of energy Jennifer M. Granholm.
