Exploring the Role of AI in Renewable Energy Integration and Optimization in Smart Cities

Sammanfattning

This thesis investigates the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing energy generation, storage, and distribution within the evolving energy systems, leading the pathway to future smart cities. Adopting a whole-system approach, the study explores how the convergence of AI technology enables more effective integration of renewable energy sources, facilitates predictive energy demand and supply management, and optimizes energy storage across urban infrastructures. Particular focus is placed on the real-life implementation of AI technology in smart urban environments. The deployment of AI technology within energy sector is evaluated across several projects. This research investigates the social and technical dimensions that influence the utilization of AI in the energy sector which influences the systemic transformation toward low-carbon, resilient urban ecosystems. The research highlights that AI- and IoT-driven energy solutions not only reduce reliance on fossil fuels but also enable decentralized and adaptive energy systems tailored to the unique demands of smart cities. The findings emphasize the critical role of forward-looking urban governance and targeted policy interventions in fostering technological innovation and adoption, thereby accelerating the energy transition in the context of smart city development.