Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping industries, and the energy sector is no exception.
Recognizing this shift, National Grid Partners (NGP), the corporate venture capital and innovation arm of National Grid plc, has announced a significant commitment: a $100 million investment in AI startups focused on revolutionizing energy management and infrastructure.
Driving Innovation for a Smarter Grid
With this investment, NGP aims to accelerate the development of a more efficient, resilient, and dynamic power grid.
The goal is to enhance economic growth, lower costs for customers, support climate initiatives, and strengthen energy security.
By integrating AI-driven technologies, utilities can optimize operations and create smarter, more adaptable energy networks.
Supporting Cutting-Edge AI Startups
As part of this initiative, NGP has revealed its latest investment in Amperon, a company specializing in AI-powered energy forecasting and analytics.
This partnership aligns with NGP’s strategy of supporting breakthrough technologies that bring immediate and long-term benefits to the energy sector.
Transforming Utilities with AI-Powered Solutions
NGP has a strong track record of investing in forward-thinking startups that provide tangible solutions for the energy industry.
Over 80% of its portfolio companies work directly with National Grid business units to enhance operations, improve safety and reliability, and streamline customer service.
Some notable AI-driven investments include:
- AiDASH – Uses satellite data combined with AI to provide real-time monitoring of infrastructure networks, improving maintenance efficiency.
- Exodigo – Employs AI and advanced sensors to map underground utilities, preventing costly errors in energy infrastructure expansion.
- Luminance – Develops AI tools for automating legal processes, ensuring efficiency in contract management.
- Sensat – Utilizes AI-powered digital twins to help infrastructure owners visualize projects, leading to faster completion and reduced costs.
- Urbint – Provides an AI-based risk management platform that predicts threats to critical infrastructure and worker safety.
A Growing Investment in AI
Since its inception in 2018, National Grid Partners has invested more than $150 million in 18 AI startups, which now make up 37% of its total portfolio.
This commitment reflects the company’s belief in AI’s potential to drive the future of energy innovation.
What’s Next?
With AI playing an increasingly vital role in shaping the energy landscape, NGP’s investments will continue to focus on cutting-edge solutions that enhance grid efficiency, sustainability, and resilience.
The journey toward a smarter, AI-powered energy future is just getting started.