AI & Digitalisation: from buzzwords to real-world impact in utilities - human enabler or human replacer?

19 May 2026
Utility Week Keynote Stage

AI and digitalisation are transforming the way utility networks and retailers operate – unlocking opportunities to boost efficiency, enhance planning and streamline delivery. How can the industry shift the narrative from fearing human replacement to embracing how these technologies empower people and enhance their roles? This session demystifies what AI and digitalisation really mean for utilities and examines where the industry is on its transformation journey.

  • Where are utilities seeing the most meaningful, real‑world impact from AI and digitalisation today? 
  • How is the sector progressing with its digitalisation plans? 
  • How are you upskilling and supporting employees to use digital and AI tools effectively? 
  • Are there any guardrails the industry should consider to support adopting AI responsibly?  


Chair
James Wallin, Editor - Utility Week

Panel
Marzia Zafar, Deputy Director of Digitalisation, Innovation and Decentralization - Ofgem
Carolina Tortora, Head of AI, Innovation and Sector Digitalisation - NESO
Andrew Mohammed, Director of Data and AI - OVO
Matt Edwards, Head of Enterprise Data, Analytics and AI - Anglian Water

Chairperson
James Wallin
James Wallin, Editor - Utility Week
Speakers
Marzia Zafar
Marzia Zafar, Deputy Director of Digitalisation, Innovation and Decentralization - Ofgem
Carolina Tortora
Carolina Tortora, Head of AI, Innovation and Sector Digitalisation - NESO
Andrew Mohammed
Andrew Mohammed, Director of Data and AI - OVO
Matt Edwards
Matt Edwards, Head of Enterprise Data, Analytics and AI - Anglian Water