Predictive energy to shape a more resilient future

What if your energy system could anticipate, not just respond?

That’s the question driving new research led by Flinders University researcher, Dr Matthew Stephenson, recently funded through the Strategic Industry Research Program (SIRP), a federally funded initiative at Flinders Factory of the Future.

Supported by Innovation Central Adelaide (ICA), the project is transforming how renewable energy systems are managed using AI to move from static infrastructure to intelligent decision-making.

From data to decisions:

Using data from a large-scale solar installation of around 20,000 panels, the team has developed machine learning models that forecast energy generation. But the real impact lies in what that enables.
By combining forecasting with simulation, the project explores smarter ways to:
• reduce energy waste
• optimise storage and battery use
• respond dynamically to changing conditions

A digital twin for smarter energy:

At the core of the work is a digital twin, a virtual model of an energy system, allowing different scenarios to be tested in real time.
This creates a powerful shift, instead of relying on fixed rules, energy systems can make decisions based on what’s likely to happen next.

Where ICA makes a difference:

ICA has played a key role in advancing the machine learning and applied side of this work, helping translate complex data into practical, real-world decision tools.
This is what ICA does best, turning emerging technology into capability that industry can actually use.

Why it matters

As renewable energy systems grow, so does their complexity. The challenge is no longer just generating power but using it intelligently.
Projects like this show what’s possible when AI, data, and industry collaboration come together. Smarter systems. Better decisions. Less waste.

Work with ICA

If you’re exploring how data, AI or digital systems could improve decision-making in your organisation, now is the time to act.
Innovation Central Adelaide works with industry to test ideas, build capability, and turn complex challenges into practical solutions.

Get in touch today to explore how we can work together.