SIREXE 2024: the digitalisation of energy systems at the heart of discussions

In the exclusive setting of the Salon International des Ressources Extractives et Énergétiques (SIREXE), a round table brought together leading experts to examine a crucial issue for the future of the energy sector: the impact of digitalisation on energy systems.

This strategic session explored the opportunities offered by digital technologies to transform a key sector in Africa, while highlighting the challenges to be met to ensure an inclusive and sustainable energy transition.

Digitalisation: towards optimised energy infrastructures

Participants highlighted how digital technologies, such as digital twins, advanced management systems and predictive analytics, can optimise energy infrastructures. These innovations not only reduce costs, but also significantly improve resource management.

"Digitalisation is a sine qua non for strengthening the resilience and efficiency of energy systems, particularly in a context of rapidly growing energy demand," said one speaker.

Smart grids: greater energy efficiency

Another central point of discussion was the role of smart grids in integrating renewable energies, monitoring consumption in real time and reducing energy losses. These digital solutions also help to better meet the needs of rural populations, who are often the most marginalised in terms of access to energy.

The challenges of digital transformation

Despite the promising opportunities, the experts also highlighted the obstacles associated with digital transformation, including the high initial costs of deploying digital technologies, the lack of local technical capacity, requiring investment in training and skills enhancement, and the risks of cyber-security, a growing concern in a sector that has become highly interconnected.

An accelerated and innovative energy transition

The round table confirmed that digitisation is an essential lever for accelerating the energy transition in Africa, while addressing the continent's specific challenges. It offers concrete prospects for improving energy efficiency, strengthening the integration of renewable energies and ensuring more equitable management of resources.

The discussions helped to identify strategic priorities that will be explored in greater depth at future SIREXE sessions. The participants also expressed their desire to work together more closely to implement technological solutions tailored to African realities.

This round table paved the way for an innovative energy transition, in which digitalisation plays a central role in building sustainable, resilient and inclusive energy systems. A highlight of SIREXE 2024 that confirms Africa's place in the evolution of global energy technologies.