Driving innovation, reliability, and digital transformation in Africa’s energy sector featuring the 2026 Africa Energy Indaba. By Palesa Mogagabe, Africa Energy Indaba (Pty) Ltd

As Africa’s energy landscape undergoes rapid transformation, automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are emerging as the most powerful tools reshaping how the continent generates, distributes, and manages power. The 2026 Africa Energy Indaba, taking place from 3 – 5 March 2026 in Cape Town, will spotlight how cutting-edge technologies are enabling greater reliability, operational efficiency, and cost savings across the African energy value chain.

Across the continent, energy utilities and independent power producers are increasingly investing in digital monitoring systems, predictive maintenance, and grid automation. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), AI-driven energy management could reduce operational losses by up to 20%, while boosting grid resilience and integrating renewable energy sources more effectively.

“Automation and AI are not only enhancing efficiency — they are redefining how we design, operate, and sustain Africa’s power systems,” says Liz Hart, Managing Director of the Africa Energy Indaba.  “Digital transformation is becoming the backbone of the energy transition.”

Africa’s growing energy demand — projected to increase by 35% by 2030 — underscores the urgent need for intelligent, data-driven energy systems that can ensure reliable power while meeting climate and sustainability goals.

“With the right digital technologies and local innovation, Africa can leapfrog traditional infrastructure challenges,” adds Hart. “Automation and AI hold the key to unlocking a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient energy future.”

Delegates at the Africa Energy Indaba 2026 conference will explore the convergence of AI, automation, IoT, and data intelligence, and how these technologies can be leveraged to modernize utilities, accelerate the clean energy transition, and improve service delivery.