Hitachi and the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) have launched a new artificial intelligence-powered solution aimed at modernizing the U.S. energy grid. The initiative is designed to speed up the generator interconnection process by reducing the time needed for study analyses by up to 80%. This will help utility providers make quicker, more informed decisions and allow power generation to better meet rising demand across SPP’s 14-state service area.
Tackling Grid Bottlenecks
The project begins at the generator interconnection stage, a known choke point in U.S. energy infrastructure. Although the country currently generates 1.28 terawatts of electricity, more than twice that amount remains stuck in interconnection queues. These delays are caused by outdated systems that cannot efficiently handle the growing number of new power sources waiting to come online.
Leveraging Hitachi’s Expertise
The new solution brings together several of Hitachi’s capabilities. These include design services from Method, software engineering by GlobalLogic, and asset modeling tools from Hitachi Energy. It also integrates AI-driven grid algorithms from Hitachi R&D and computing power from the Hitachi Vantara platform. SPP will oversee how these technologies are deployed, focusing on improving operations and the experience for customers. The project will also ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
AI for the Energy Industry
Hitachi is also working with NVIDIA to apply industrial AI to energy systems. The AI platform, based on Hitachi iQ’s enterprise stack, will help automate processes, predict system behavior, and improve communication across the grid. It will be used in areas such as transmission planning and long-term forecasting. The goal is to align these tools with both current needs and future challenges in grid management and capacity planning.
Leaders Speak Out
“There are many potential power producers waiting to connect, but the outdated systems we use today can’t keep up,” said SPP President and CEO Lanny Nickell. “It’s time for a change. We’re proud to partner with Hitachi and NVIDIA—two leaders in AI—to help build a stronger energy future for the country.”
Frank Antonysamy, Chief Growth Officer at Hitachi Digital, emphasized the need for real-time data. “Accurate data is key to understanding the impact of new power sources,” he said. “Our AI system will deliver that data, helping SPP make faster, smarter decisions that improve service and return on investment.”
Marc Spieler, Senior Managing Director for Global Energy at NVIDIA, added, “With NVIDIA’s advanced AI and computing power, this partnership will accelerate interconnection studies and bring critical infrastructure online more quickly.”
