DTECH 2026 highlighted the urgent need for grid modernization as the energy industry faces rapidly changing priorities. Microsoft’s key focus this year was transitioning utilities from pilot programs to full-scale operations, utilizing unified IT and OT data alongside AI to enhance reliability, affordability, and productivity. Sessions emphasized the importance of building a robust data foundation, enabling seamless analytics and AI applications across operations, planning, and customer engagement. As complexity increases with distributed energy resources and electrification, utilities must implement agent-enabled workflows for improved coordination and timely responses. Collaboration with partners like Dragos, GE, Hitachi, Itron, and Schneider Electric showcased innovations in cybersecurity and operational efficiencies. Security and resilience are paramount as IT and OT converge, requiring consistent identity management and automation across systems. With a clear roadmap for the future, utilities are prioritizing trusted data, AI capabilities, and secure architectures to effectively navigate evolving energy landscapes. Microsoft is committed to advancing these transformative initiatives.
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