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Enhancing Energy Security with AI: Insights from Honeywell’s Survey

As global energy demand is expected to rise significantly—projected to increase by 32% by 2050—energy leaders are increasingly recognizing the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to bolster energy security. Honeywell's latest pulse survey conducted in April 2025 sheds light on the insights of 300 energy decision-makers in the United States. The findings reveal that the majority of executives are optimistic about the role of AI in improving energy operations.

The Impact of AI on Energy Efficiency

According to the survey results, about 91% of the energy executives surveyed believe AI has immediate potential to enhance energy security. This optimism is further highlighted by the forecast from the BloombergNEF New Energy Outlook, which predicts a 75% surge in electricity demand alone. As such, energy companies will need to optimize their existing operations and explore new energy sources, leveraging digital technologies like AI.

Current AI Usage in the Energy Sector

Interestingly, only 12% of the respondents indicated that AI is a critical component of their current energy operations. However, a staggering 81% anticipate its importance will grow significantly in the coming five years. The urgency to integrate AI into energy practices illustrates a broader trend toward digitalization and innovation in the sector. The survey notes that 85% of the executives are either actively employing or piloting AI technologies.

Key Applications Highlighted by Executives

The survey also delves into the specific applications of AI that are deemed valuable by energy leaders.

• - Cybersecurity and Threat Detection (57%): The industry's growing reliance on digital infrastructure has heightened concerns about security. Executives are increasingly recognizing AI's ability to enhance cybersecurity measures and safeguard critical energy operations.
• - Predictive Maintenance (52%): Leveraging AI for predictive maintenance is seen as a significant step toward operational efficiency. This proactive approach helps in minimizing downtime and maintaining seamless energy production.
• - Operational Efficiency (44%): From optimizing workflows to reducing costs, AI is positioned as a catalyst for streamlining operations within the energy sector.

Additionally, over half of the respondents (53%) are utilizing AI to tackle labor shortages through smart automation and upskilling initiatives, while 53% are enhancing workplace safety with AI monitoring systems. However, only one-third of respondents reported using AI to automate routine tasks, indicating that there is much room for growth in AI adoption.

Future Considerations for the Energy Sector

Ken West, President and CEO of Honeywell Energy and Sustainability Solutions, emphasized the significance of embracing new technology solutions facing the energy industry today. He pointed out that addressing energy security while optimizing existing infrastructures is critical. Furthermore, AI and automation hold the promise of expediting the integration of new energy sources promptly and efficiently.

As the energy sector faces unprecedented challenges, the insights from Honeywell's survey paint a compelling picture of a future where AI plays a pivotal role. Organizations must adapt and evolve to harness AI’s full potential, leveraging its capabilities not only to manage increasing energy demands but also to foster a more secure and efficient industry.

In conclusion, as energy professionals look ahead to a world of heightened demand and potential supply vulnerabilities, AI stands out as a key ally. The transition towards a smarter energy landscape is just beginning, and it will be interesting to see how organizations-collaborate and innovate to embrace these advances in technology.

For more information on the survey and Honeywell's AI solutions, visit Honeywell's Energy and Sustainability Solutions.