"The grid challenges today require flexible technology to solve the energy demands of tomorrow."

As the energy transition speeds up in Asia Pacific, smarter grids are just as important as reducing carbon emissions from power supply. With more rooftop solar, electric vehicles, energy storage, and other distributed energy resources, the grid is becoming more complex. A more effective tool is needed to respond promptly to maintain system reliability.

"We cannot manage what we cannot measure."

David Maclean, Senior Vice President of Asia Pacific at Landis+Gyr, explains that grid intelligence must evolve in three key areas to support a future-proof grid: real-time grid and consumer insights, Edge AI-enabled decision-making at substations, transformers, consumers level and the integration of distributed energy resources (DER) into smart infrastructure.

According to Maclean, grid stability or reliability is only possible if utilities have real-time grid visibility and integration of DER in place through DERMS platform from the edge to cloud.

When data is integrated with cloud platforms, utilities will gain visibility on Real-time monitoring of voltage, frequency, and load conditions, faster response to fluctuations caused by intermittent renewables and dynamic load balancing and voltage regulation at the local level, not the central system. With real-time monitoring utilities can start piloting predictive analytics and forecasting of historical data from the edge.

Turning Data into Action

Smart meters and sensors can collect large amounts of data, but the key is turning that data into actionable insights.

For instance, Maclean shared a real-world example where Landis+Gyr is currently piloting with an American utility on Intelligent Voltage Monitoring (IVM) leveraging the company’s Edge applications and analytics. The IVM app uses a targeted group of meters to monitor voltage and support dynamic voltage operations. To date, the pilot has noted 1% reduction in voltage can yield approximately 0.8% in energy savings.

Overcoming Common Challenges

Adopting new grid-edge technologies isn’t without obstacles. Maclean identifies several: aging infrastructure, complex data integration, cybersecurity risks, regulatory challenges, and high upfront costs.

However, each of these can be addressed.

He recommends approaches such as phased modernisation through modular upgrades, use of edge gateways that adopt open standards for interoperability and leveraging public-private partnerships including green financing to ease financial burdens.  

"Use total cost of ownership (TCO) models to justify investments," he adds, "and monetise new services such as demand response, grid services from EVs."

Looking Ahead in Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific presents unique challenges and opportunities for grid modernisation. Maclean highlights a few areas as critical: AI-Driven Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS), Edge AI combined with sensors for Grid Monitoring, Interoperable Energy Platforms and Open Standards, and Consumer-Centric Energy Apps and Marketplaces. All of the mentioned above will yield better results if utilities adopt open standards and interoperability to ensure the edge to cloud ecosystem is flexible to scale in the future.

He notes that Edge AI innovations is also critical for remote and islanded communities in Southeast Asia and the Pacific that has harsh climate conditions. Meanwhile, consumer apps can support behaviour change and demand-side flexibility, helping both utilities and consumers play a role in managing energy use.

By collaborating with key stakeholders and the right end to end solutions partner in the energy value chain, together the total cost of ownership and investment in Grid Edge can be justified - for a sustainable future.

Continuing the Conversation at Enlit Asia

The transformation of the grid is a shared responsibility—and dialogue is essential. As utilities and technology providers work together to address these challenges, industry platforms like Enlit Asia provide the space to exchange ideas, showcase innovation, and foster meaningful collaboration.

Enlit Asia 2025 taking place in Bangkok from 9–11 September is the meeting place for Landis+ Gyr and likeminded experts to share how technology is reshaping grid operations and enabling smarter energy systems. Visit here to find out more:  www.enlit-asia.com

About Landis + Gyr

Landis+Gyr is a leading global provider of integrated energy management solutions. Its innovative and proven portfolio of software, services and intelligent sensor technology is a key driver to decarbonise the grid. Having avoided 9 million tons of CO2 in FY 2024, Landis+Gyr empowers energy sustainability all over the world– since 1896. 

Landis+Gyr employs approximately 6,300 skilled professionals across five continents, with a strong commitment to investing in local communities to accelerate the energy transition.

In the Asia Pacific region, our Global Development Centre is home to nearly 1,000 engineers who are tackling complex grid challenges worldwide—ensuring energy systems remain reliable, resilient, and adaptable. In Australia and New Zealand, Landis+Gyr delivers innovative energy and water solutions, integrating next-generation Grid Edge Intelligence powered by AI to future-proof the region’s infrastructure.

Visit Landis+Gyr’s booth at Enlit Asia to find out more of Grid Edge solutions.