On January 6, 2026, Microsoft and the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) announced a partnership to implement a unified data platform and cloud-native analytics leveraging Microsoft Azure. This initiative aims to enhance the regional grid serving approximately 42 million people by integrating advanced technologies like Microsoft Foundry AI, Power BI, and Microsoft 365 Copilot. The collaboration will facilitate machine learning, improved forecasting, and advanced visualization tools for grid operations.
As the energy landscape evolves with increased electrification and renewable resources, the platform is designed to enhance situational awareness, predict weather disruptions, reduce congestion, and expedite decision-making processes—from weeks to minutes. Microsoft envisions this partnership as a significant modernization of North America’s electricity markets, fostering a resilient, sustainable grid capable of handling future demands. This collaboration represents a transformative shift in how cloud, AI, and grid operations intersect, ensuring reliability and performance in a rapidly changing energy environment.
Source link
