AI and big data can help to solve climate crisis

Researchers to use artificial intelligence (AI) and big data to help the UK achieve its net-zero ambitions. 

Developed as part of a £1.6m programme funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council,  researchers at Lancaster University have developed algorithms which can automatically and continuously shift through a deluge of data, finding new insights and recommending ways to slash energy consumption.

These new tools will be designed and developed to be transferred across a wide range of business sectors and organisations.

The researchers have said this will pave the way for ‘digital replication’ of energy efficiency savings, and a viral spread of the knowledge and techniques across sectors.

Professor Adrian Friday, head of Lancaster University’s School of Computing and Communications and one of the Principal investigators on the programme, said: ‘I’m really excited about this new collaboration – I believe digital technology and data has huge potential to help us and our partners achieve net-zero.

‘This is part of the digital infrastructure we will need nationally and internationally if we’re to help organisations change how they operate to be more sustainable. It’s great to have such a strong and committed set of collaborators, and I’m looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together.’

Paul O’Brien, AI, service, security & operations research director of project partner BT, added: ‘As an organisation, BT is committed to becoming a net-zero carbon emissions business.

‘Understanding and learning from our energy data is a key part of this journey. We are therefore delighted to be a key partner on this important research programme, working with a university that is committed to helping us tackle one of the most pressing problems of our generation. Given Lancaster University’s outstanding track record of successfully linking world-class research to real-life problems, we are confident that this project can help make a positive step forward.’

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