Huawei Puts AI at the Centre of Power Grid Modernisation
Huawei has highlighted the growing importance of automation, digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI) in modernising power grids, as global energy systems face increasing pressure from outages and the transition to cleaner energy.
In 2025 alone, more than 10 major power outages were recorded worldwide, disrupting electricity supply for over 1.2 billion people. As a result, system stability remains a critical priority for power utilities. At the same time, the global push towards carbon neutrality is accelerating the adoption of renewable energy and electrification, placing new demands on existing grid infrastructure.
Speaking on the sidelines of Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Jason Li, President of Global Marketing & Solutions at Huawei’s Electric Power Digitalisation Business Unit, said power grids are evolving beyond traditional transmission systems.
“In the past, automation was the main tool used to address grid challenges,” Mr Li said. “Today, power grids are becoming central to the energy transition. Digitalisation and AI are no longer optional upgrades – they are essential components of core power generation and grid operations.”
He added that combining automation with advanced telecommunications and AI technologies can help power systems achieve both high stability and greater flexibility, especially as renewable energy sources introduce more variability into the grid.
One of the biggest challenges, according to Huawei, lies in distribution networks. The large-scale integration of distributed solar photovoltaic systems, energy storage, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and increased user interaction is making it more complex to maintain balance and security at the distribution level.
“The real breakthrough for future power systems will come from distribution networks,” Mr Li noted. “In particular, transparency at the 400-volt low-voltage level is critical.”
To address this, Huawei and its partners have developed an Intelligent Distribution Solution (IDS) designed to improve visibility and management of low-voltage networks, enabling more efficient and secure operations.
At MWC 2026, Huawei is showcasing a range of AI-powered applications for the power sector, including solutions for intelligent power distribution, smart substations and automated power plant inspections. The company says these innovations are aimed at supporting utilities as they undergo digital transformation and adapt to the demands of a low-carbon future.
