In the heart of India’s bustling tech landscape, Dharmendra Hariyani, a mechanical engineer from Swami Keshvanand Institute of Technology, Management and Gramothan in Jaipur, has been delving into the digital frontier to tackle some of the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges. His latest research, published in the journal ‘Green Technologies and Sustainability’ (which translates to ‘Zelene Technologije in Trajnost’ in English), explores how digital technologies (DTs) can accelerate progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on the energy sector.
Imagine a world where smart grids predict and adapt to energy demands in real-time, where blockchain ensures the ethical sourcing of renewable materials, and where AI-driven analytics optimize energy production and distribution. This is not a distant dream, but a tangible reality that DTs are helping to shape. Hariyani’s study, a systematic review of 473 peer-reviewed articles, sheds light on the transformative potential of these technologies.
At the core of this digital revolution are several key technologies. The Internet of Things (IoT), for instance, enables real-time monitoring and management of energy systems, paving the way for smart cities and enhanced energy efficiency. “IoT allows us to collect and analyze data from various energy sources and consumption points,” Hariyani explains. “This real-time data can then be used to optimize energy use, reduce waste, and improve overall efficiency.”
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is another game-changer. By facilitating automation and predictive analytics, AI can support everything from climate action to healthcare. In the energy sector, AI can predict maintenance needs, optimize energy trading, and even forecast energy demand based on weather patterns and historical data.
Blockchain, often associated with cryptocurrencies, has a crucial role to play in enhancing transparency and security. In the energy sector, blockchain can ensure the ethical sourcing of materials, track energy production and consumption, and even facilitate peer-to-peer energy trading.
Big data analytics, cloud computing, and 5G networks further strengthen these capabilities, enabling better decision-making, improved connectivity, and enhanced collaboration. Remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provide essential insights for environmental monitoring and disaster response, which are crucial for building resilient energy infrastructure.
However, the path to this digital utopia is not without its challenges. Hariyani’s study highlights several barriers to DT adoption, including the digital divide, high costs, data privacy concerns, and skill shortages. To overcome these, Hariyani advocates for increased government investments in digital infrastructure, strategic public-private partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives.
The commercial impacts of these technologies are profound. Energy companies that embrace DTs can expect to see improved operational efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced sustainability credentials. Moreover, as consumers increasingly demand ethical and sustainable products, companies that can demonstrate their commitment to the SDGs will have a competitive edge.
Hariyani’s research provides a roadmap for policymakers, industry leaders, and businesses to leverage DTs for sustainable development. It’s a call to action for the energy sector to embrace these technologies and play a leading role in shaping a sustainable future.
As we stand on the cusp of a digital revolution, Hariyani’s work serves as a reminder that technology is not just about innovation; it’s about solving real-world problems and creating a better future for all. The energy sector, with its critical role in powering our world, is poised to be a key player in this digital transformation. The question is, will it rise to the challenge?
