The power industry is experiencing a surge in patent innovation, driven by the increasing demand for energy and the urgent need for energy efficiency. A recent report by GlobalData reveals that the past three years alone have seen a staggering 656,000 patents filed and granted within this dynamic sector. This innovation wave is fueled by the growing importance of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in shaping the industry’s future.
Among the many innovation areas, “Power Grid Digital Twins” has emerged as a key focal point in artificial intelligence. These digital twins are precise, digital replicas of physical power grid systems. What sets them apart is their ability to remain continuously updated, providing real-time insights into the operation of power grids by harnessing data from various sources, including sensors.
Who’s leading the charge?
GlobalData’s in-depth analysis also sheds light on the trailblazers in each innovation area and assesses the potential impact of their patenting activity across different applications and geographic regions. In the case of power grid digital twins, more than 80 companies are vying for supremacy, ranging from technology vendors and established power companies to emerging startups.
Two critical metrics for innovation are “Application Diversity” and “Geographic Reach.” Application diversity measures the number of applications identified for each patent, broadly categorizing companies into ‘niche’ or ‘diversified’ innovators. On the other hand, geographic reach quantifies the number of countries where each patent is registered, reflecting the intended breadth of geographic application.
Leading patent filers in power grid digital twins
State Grid Corporation of China, a stalwart in constructing and operating power grids, stands tall as one of the leading patent filers in power grid digital twins. The company’s core focus includes the research and development of ultra-high voltage (UHV) transmission and smart grid technologies. State Grid Corporation of China holds proprietary intellectual property rights and actively promotes the export of technology and related equipment. With large-scale commercial UHV projects, SGCC serves municipalities, provinces, and autonomous regions, effectively powering most of China.
Joining the ranks of prominent patent filers in this sector are China Southern Power Grid, ABB, and Siemens, each contributing significantly to the development of power grid digital twins.
Leia takes the lead regarding application diversity, showcasing a wide range of applications for their patents. Toshiba and Schneider Electric follow closely behind, illustrating their commitment to innovation and diversification within the power industry.
Geographic reach: Sunverge Energy at the helm
When it comes to geographic reach, Sunverge Energy claims the top position, affirming its global ambitions and widespread impact. Sun Electric and Ember Technologies also rank high in this metric, underlining their efforts to expand their influence across diverse international markets.
As the power industry evolves, power grid digital twins are poised to play an increasingly pivotal role. These digital replicas offer a powerful means of monitoring and optimizing energy distribution, enhancing the industry’s efficiency and sustainability. The continuous updating of digital twins ensures that real-time data drives decision-making, resulting in more reliable and resilient power grids.
A bright future beckons
The power industry’s relentless pursuit of innovation and the rise of transformative technologies like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things paints a promising future. With their ability to mimic, monitor, and manage physical grid systems, power grid digital twins are at the forefront of this revolution.
With many companies investing in this field and a diverse range of applications, the industry is on the cusp of a new era marked by improved efficiency, reduced downtime, and enhanced energy sustainability. As patent innovation continues to surge, the power industry is poised to meet the world’s growing energy demands while minimizing its environmental footprint.
