GET TO KNOW done . These investments in things like what we call Energy 4.0 will lead to a much different world . While it is going to be immensely more digital and connected with the extreme adoption of IoT over the last few years , it is also going to be much more electric .
Today , 20 % of the energy we consume is electric , but over the next 10 years that will increase by at least 10 % leading to a more sustainable future . Most of this progress and evolution will happen in buildings and in mobility . The major investment areas I would call our attention to are :
1 . Furthering digitization and energy efficiency research and work ;
2 . Optimization of construction so everything we build new is built to be net zero , using the newest technology and especially software ;
3 . Creation of a future-proofed infrastructure , which will enable the development of those smart places , namely smart grid , electric vehicle infrastructure ;
4 . And lastly the deployment of the technology and solutions we have ( 70 % of the present carbon emissions can be abated with present technologies )
Primary investments are in creating a future that will be more digital for efficiency , and more electric for decarbonization – showing that sustainability , smart and green digitization and electrification go hand in hand .
This explains what we have accomplished and been continuing to work toward at Schneider Electric for the past 20 years . Our persistent strategy is to develop technologies that empower all to make the most of our energy and resources .
In line with these recommended investments , last year we finalized the acquisition of RIB Software , a global player in the Digital Transformation of the construction industry , concluded the acquisition of ETAP , which is a worldwide leader in electrical calculation and simulation , and completed our investment into Planon , which is a reference in smart building for real estate manager and facility managers .
What are the region-specific challenges when implementing new technologies in North America ?
Generally North America is a leading market in which ESG is becoming a corporate goal across the board . The mainstream adoption of connected things on industrial , manufacturing and logistics is rapidly increasing .
There are however region-specific standards defined by bodies like NEMA that we have to be aware of in deploying our technologies . We also have to
consider and abide by increasing data privacy and data residency laws especially as things get more connected and we adopt Zero Trust architecture .
What changes to your job role have you seen in the last year and how do you see these developing in the next 12 months ?
Over last year , I saw an increased amount of integration between business strategy , operations and technology , as well as the ability of CIOs to influence strategic decisions . With our focus on Digital Transformation for scale I see that continuing in 2022 , with an increasing opportunity to be active in business growth .
What advice would you offer somebody aspiring to obtain a C-level position in your industry ?
The energy sector is increasingly becoming very technology savvy . Having spent 18 years of my career in high-tech verticals , I am very excited to be part of a Fortune 500 company driven by the theme of sustainability and Digital Transformation and that promotes equality and talent .
My main advice to anyone aspiring for growth in their career would be ‘ take a chance ’ on something that might not seem obvious but would excite you personally to get up daily . p
The energy sector is increasingly becoming very technology savvy .
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