Powering the Intelligent Grid: How AI and Quantum Computing Will Transform Energy Infrastructure

In this session, Juan Bernabé-Moreno, Director of IBM Research Europe for the UK and Ireland, explores how the convergence of artificial intelligence and quantum computing is creating a new paradigm for energy management. Drawing on his experience overseeing IBM Research's accelerated discovery programs, Juan will share how foundation models, agentic AI systems, and quantum-enhanced optimization can help utilities move from reactive operations to predictive and autonomous decision-making. Attendees will learn through real-world examples how AI can improve grid forecasting, asset management, outage prediction, and renewable integration, while emerging quantum technologies promise breakthroughs in solving some of the energy sector's most complex optimization challenges, from transmission planning and load balancing to distributed energy resource coordination