3 AIs efficiency gains are scaling Optimization and automation are seen as the areas where AI will have the greatest impact on the energy transition. While many of these expectations align to last year, understanding and expectations have sharpened as knowledge around AI has increased. There are expectations that AI will be able to effectively analyze big data to ssupport supply and demand predictions to make a more efficient and robust system. Similarly, with the integration of smart sensors, there is belief that AI will have impact through predictive maintenance as well as reducing human error through automation. AI is viewed as a key enabler for sustainability initiatives, decarbonization, and the development of innovative energy technologies. At the same time there is a widespread view among survey respondents that investments in grid modernization (55%) are key to keeping up with AIs growing demands, followed by energy storage (38%) and advanced materials like high-efficiency conductors (33%). Masdar, one of the worlds largest renewable energy investors, has embedded AI across its global wind and solar portfolio and within Masdar City to maximize efficiency, reliability, and scalability AI-driven climate control in Masdar Citys newest buildings has achieved an average energy reduction of 38% compared to international baselines., proving AIs tangible benefits. Across its renewables, Masdar and AI specialist Presight deployed predictive maintenance tools analyzing data from turbines, solar panels, and storage. These models reduce downtime, extend uptime by 35%, and allow maintenance to be scheduled during low-demand periods. In Masdar City, AI functions as the central energy control system, forecasting generation and demand, charging storage ahead of low-solar days, pre- cooling buildings during peak hours, and lowering reliance on grid power. AI also optimizes autonomous electric transport, further reducing demand and emissions. The results are significant: predictive systems have increased annual energy yields across assets, and the AI-managed city microgrid has lowered peak electricity demand, reducing grid stress and fossil backup needs. Masdars experience highlights how digital infrastructure amplifies returns from renewable assets, with stakeholder engagement proving critical for adoption. For policymakers and developers, Masdar City offers a replicable blueprint for AI-enabled clean energy and sustainable urban design. 15 Smarter renewable power: Masdars AI-optimized clean energy Key Shifts from 2024 to 2025 AI is driving efficiency by optimizing complex systems (like power flow), automating processes (such as predictive maintenance), and enabling better forecasting for renewables. Senior leaders expect the greatest impact from AI in optimization and automation, with additional benefits in unlocking scientific discoveries and supporting new business models. Watch For in 2026 Efficiency AI (HVAC, predictive maintenance, process optimization) moving from pilots to standard operating procedure. New energy productivity KPIs (e.g. energy per AI task) entering corporate reporting. Watch for companies reporting tangible energy- efficiency improvements attributed to AI, indicating this trends payoff. AI is not only transforming global demand for renewable energy, but increasingly, its redefining what is possible for clean power. Masdar's game- changing Round the Clock project in Abu Dhabi uses advanced AI forecasting to optimize storage and release, making dispatchable, 24/7 clean power a reality. The priority now must be to replicate its success globally as we accelerate innovation and integration, ensuring that AI and clean energy evolve together to power the next industrial era. Mohamed Al Ramahi CEO, MASDAR 15 Fast Facts Masdar City, November 2023 https://masdarcity.ae/docs/default-source/pdf-to-download/mc--net-zero-fact-sheet-nov-1-2023.pdf?sfvrsn=3ca9260a_2 27 Powering Possible 2025 26