By Alice Chambers |
Microsoft will help Terna digitise its business and industrial operations as part of efforts to modernise Italy’s electricity grid.
Brad Smith, vice chair and president of Microsoft, and Giuseppina Di Foggia, CEO and general manager of Terna, signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at developing initiatives to support this digital transformation. It includes using AI, data platforms and a hybrid digital infrastructure.
“Terna plays an important and vital role in Italy’s economy and its energy infrastructure, and we are proud to support their digital transformation journey,” said Smith. “With Microsoft’s AI and security solutions, Terna is not only enhancing operational efficiency but also strengthening its digital resilience. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the secure, responsible use of AI to power the future of energy.”
The energy firm has already launched a pilot phase of Microsoft 365 Copilot as part of its 2024-2028 industrial plan, where it has allocated €2.4 ($2.8) billion for digital transformation. It is now working toward the broader application of AI tools across its operations including infrastructure maintenance, automated fault detection and procurement process management. It will also use AI solutions to strengthen the security of its infrastructure.
“Together we will design strategic and innovative solutions for Terna’s future,” said Di Foggia. “Microsoft’s services will enable the company to execute its industrial plan across four key areas: digitalisation, innovation, security and sustainability. The integration of digitalised solutions into our business processes will allow us to continue improving the efficiency and quality of operations for managing the National Electricity System.”