Geospatial Technology for Energy Sector Challenges, Ryan Ciesielski, National Grid

On this episode of the Hypercube podcast, we are joined by Ryan Ciesielski, Director of Geospatial Data Analytics and Technology at National Grid.

National Grid is a goliath in the UK and US energy space with a huge remit, but our conversation with Ryan focuses on how it is using vast amounts of geospatial data to power its electricity and gas transmission and distribution networks.

Ryan draws on his background using geospatial data in both the armed forces and now the energy sector to illustrate how this technology has evolved. He digs into the scale and complexity of National Grid's geospatial data and the challenges of managing such large data volumes.

He and Adam discuss the pace of the energy and data landscapes, the impact this has on the strategy of such a big organisation, and the opportunity it presents for start-ups to help with problem-solving.

Along with Ryan’s take on the trends to expect, this episode is a real insight into the uses of geospatial data analytics in the energy space.

In this episode, Adam and Ryan discuss:

• National Grid’s ‘Big Work’
• The role of geospatial data and analytics in the utility industry 
• Remaining agile when both the energy sector and data technologies are evolving rapidly
• How entrepreneurs and startups can work to support National Grid
• Trends in geospatial technologies and the growing role of AI and machine learning in the energy sector

The weekly Hypercube podcast sits down with leaders in the energy and utilities sectors to explore how data analytics can help businesses make smarter decisions and accelerate business growth.

Chapter Markers

[0:34] Introduction to Ryan and what his role at National Grid involves.

[2:59] The scale and complexity of National Grid's geospatial data in the UK and US.

[6:02] National Grid's ‘big work’ challenge and evolving strategies for dealing with the large volume of data.

[8:39] How geospatial technology has changed over the course of Ryan's career in both the armed forces and in the energy sector.

[11:21] The process for adopting new technologies and how National Grid operates with the agility to leverage innovative solutions.

[13:34] Advice for developing an enterprise geospatial strategy with a ‘problem-first’ approach.

[16:11] The importance of seeing through strategic decisions despite an evolving landscape.

[18:11] Trends in geospatial technology and how they can be applied in the energy sector.

[22:54] How events like the Data Lab's geospatial fringe event foster talent in the energy industry.

[24:24] Opportunities to connect with Ryan and learn more about the National Grid.