Slovenská elektrizačná prenosová sústava (SEPS) is the backbone of the domestic energy sector: across thousands of kilometers of lines it brings electricity where we need it and safeguards grid stability. In the era of Energy 4.0, reliability is joined by digitalization, enhanced cybersecurity, and support for renewable sources. As "energy in the right place," it must adapt to a rapidly changing world of technology and demand.
From Steam to Algorithms
The first industrial revolution was built on coal and steam, which enabled mechanized machines and the start of mass production. The second brought widespread use of electricity and fossil fuels, which lowered prices and accelerated production. The third, in the 1970s, relied on automation, computers, and later the internet, with the share of renewable sources gradually increasing. Today, the fourth revolution connects the physical and digital worlds: artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, big data, and cyber-physical systems pave the way for smart grids and decentralized, sustainable energy.
Challenges and Solutions for Energy 4.0
Decarbonization is driving the rapid rise of photovoltaics and wind, the development of battery storage and hydrogen, but also the phase-down of stable fossil sources. At the same time, decentralization is underway: more prosumers are producing and feeding electricity back into the grid. Add to this the electrification of end uses—from heat pumps to electromobility—and demand-side management through flexibility and aggregation. The result is a more dynamic system that needs accurate data and fast decision-making.
The answer is digitizing processes and automating grid control using smart metering, IoT sensors, and predictive analytics powered by artificial intelligence. As this is critical infrastructure, requirements are growing for cybersecurity and for connecting enterprise IT systems with field technologies (OT), including digital twins. Such tools help respond more quickly to changes in generation and consumption, better integrate renewable sources, and optimize operations. The benefits include higher supply reliability, cost savings, and reduced CO2 emissions.
