European grid digitalisation and AI research

In late July 2026 the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme approved funding for six research projects led by Greece’s electricity distribution operator DEDDIE. The projects target generative AI for data analysis, AI‑driven digital twins for next‑generation substations, and community‑focused grid flexibility solutions, marking a coordinated effort to modernise distribution networks.

A few days later, Spain announced a €40 million, four‑year investment through Elewit to accelerate digitalisation of its high‑voltage transmission system. The plan supports advanced AI tools, cyber‑security upgrades and digital‑twin simulations, including the EU‑funded ReCharged project that develops AI‑based fault detection and digital twins for transport and energy assets across several European countries. Together, the Greek and Spanish initiatives illustrate a broader European push to embed artificial‑intelligence and digital‑twin technologies into critical electricity infrastructure.