Today, we return to energy and AI. What will AI mean in terms of global energy consumption up to 2030 and beyond? And could that be offset by efficiencies and transformations generated by AI in our daily lives? Could AI even accelerate the energy transition? To do that, we are discussing the International Energy Agency's latest paper - 'Energy and AI' - a comprehensive review and deep dive into AI’s impacts on the world's energy map.
Speaking to our host Paul Chapman on this episode are the lead authors, Thomas Spencer and Siddharth Singh. Both are also part of the team that produces the World Energy Outlook annually.
Read below for our key talent impacts from this episode.
Key Talent Impacts
Is the energy sector doing enough to close its AI skills gap?
The rapid integration of AI into the energy and commodities space is exposing a significant skills shortfall, particularly in AI, data science, and digital optimisation. Despite the transformative potential of AI, the energy sector lags behind other industries in acquiring AI-related capabilities within its workforce. Companies are constrained not just by technology but by a lack of suitably skilled professionals, highlighting the urgent need to attract tech talent into the sector.
How can energy and commodities firms reposition themselves to attract top tech talent?
AI’s ability to accelerate decarbonisation, modernise grids, and optimise consumption positions the energy sector as one of the most impactful areas for tech professionals. Leaders must reframe the energy sector as a mission-critical arena for climate action and innovation, where technologists can make a measurable difference.
Are we building the hybrid talent pipelines needed to bridge engineering, AI, and energy systems?
Data centres, decentralised generation, AI-led energy forecasting, and autonomous energy systems are all complex undertakings. Success will rely not only on deep AI and engineering expertise, but also on cross-disciplinary talent who understand policy, regulation, energy infrastructure, and systems integration.
As AI reshapes operations, are we ready to rethink our workforce strategy from the ground up?
The traditional workforce model, which is heavily focused on upstream and operational roles, must adapt. As AI increasingly shapes how assets are designed, built, and operated, companies must plan for a reskilling and upskilling revolution, ensuring existing workforces can transition into these emerging domains.
Who’s responsible for creating the talent ecosystems that will unlock AI at scale?
Regulatory, legal, and infrastructure constraints—such as limited digitisation of equipment or concerns around liability—are impeding AI adoption. There is a need for policy-led sandboxes, industry-wide partnerships, and regional hubs where AI practitioners, utilities, and energy firms can co-develop solutions, test applications, and build trust. Building these ecosystems will be essential to scaling talent and innovation across the sector.
HC Group is a global search firm dedicated to the energy and commodities markets.
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