North American utilities are embracing AI far faster than expected—and seeing results. (Itron)
41% of utilities now have fully integrated AI, analytics, and grid edge intelligence, up from just 25% last year, according to Itron’s 2025 Resourcefulness Report. Another 40% have major projects underway.
AI is both the problem and the solution. As demand surges from data centers, EVs, and manufacturing, AI is helping utilities forecast load, prevent outages, and manage costs—cutting emergency repairs by up to 60% in some cases.
The challenge: Executives say weak grid and data infrastructure plus talent shortages remain major barriers to scaling AI. But the genie is out of the bottle—further investment and integration is inevitable.