According to Itron’s Resourcefulness Insight Report, utilities see the greatest potential for artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in areas such as safety (49%), cybersecurity (34%), predictive maintenance (33%), renewable energy integration (31%), staffing (31%), grid resilience (31%), demand forecasting (31%) and consumer engagement (30%). These priorities reinforce Itron’s focus on integrating AI and ML into our solutions to help utilities enhance efficiency, resilience and sustainability. Below, we highlight key collaborations that are turning these innovations into real-world impact—empowering our customers to unlock the full potential of AI and ML. 

Itron and Microsoft: Streamlining Data Access with Generative AI 

Utilities generate an immense amount of data. Together, Itron and Microsoft are enhancing the way utilities access this data by integrating Microsoft’s gen AI Copilot technology into Itron’s Intelligent Edge Operating System (IEOS). The collaboration will enable utilities to use natural language queries to request information previously only available to their data scientists. By using AI, IEOS transforms complex data interactions into simple, intuitive processes, significantly boosting operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities. The AI-powered platform, which will serve as a virtual assistant to utility operators, will be available to our customers globally during the second quarter of 2025. 

Itron and NVIDIA: AI Meets the Grid Edge 

To date, Itron has delivered over 13 million distributed intelligence-enabled endpoints globally. Itron and NVIDIA are joining forces to take this a step further, accelerating the adoption of AI-powered solutions at the grid edge. The collaboration uniquely combines Itron’s leading Grid Edge Intelligence portfolio with NVIDIA’s AI-powered solutions, integrating real-time data to transform how utilities meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry. Together, Itron and NVIDIA are transforming vast amounts of data into intelligent, real-time information for utilities, supporting grid optimization, energy demand forecasting and data processing. 

Itron’s commitment to advancing AI and ML is driven by the real-world needs of utilities—enhancing safety, strengthening cybersecurity, improving grid resilience and optimizing operations. Through strategic collaborations and cutting-edge solutions, we’re helping utilities unlock the full potential of these technologies to build a smarter, more sustainable future.  

Want to see AI and ML in action? Visit Itron at booth 3008 at DISTRIBUTECH 2025 to explore our latest innovations driving utility transformation and shaping the future of energy. Make sure you’re following us on social media to see what we’re up to at the show!