Beyond The Grid

Swaroop George Kariath
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Beyond the Grid is a show about the unseen forces powering our modern world — the electric grid, the people behind it, and the complex systems that keep it all running. From utility workers to policy makers, engineers to innovators, we dive into the stories, challenges, and breakthroughs shaping the future of energy. Whether you're in the industry or just energy-curious, this is where power, people, and everything in between come to light. Beyond the Grid — Power, people, and everything in between.

  1. Sep 25

    S1 E2 | Building AI for the Grid: An Entrepreneur’s Journey from Idea to Impact

    In this episode, Vik Chaudhry, co-founder and CTO of Buzz Solutions, shares insights on how AI and computer vision are transforming utility infrastructure management, enhancing reliability, safety, and proactive maintenance. key topics AI and computer vision in utilitiesDrone inspection for power infrastructurePredictive maintenance and asset managementWildfire risk mitigation using AIData standardization and quality in inspectionsIndustry partnerships and integration with asset management systemsFuture of autonomous infrastructure monitoringWorkforce transformation with AI and automationAI enables utilities to perform more frequent, efficient inspections.Standardized data collection improves AI accuracy and reliability.Proactive asset management can prevent outages and wildfires.Partnerships with existing systems like SAP and Maximo enhance AI integration.Future utility operations will involve autonomous drones and human oversight.AI models trained on diverse data sets are highly accurate.Data drift and model maintenance are critical for AI success.Workforce upskilling and knowledge transfer are vital for AI adoption.Guardrails and human-in-the-loop are essential for safe AI deployment.Buzz Solutions aims to lead in proactive, predictive grid management."Energy is the backbone of human civilization""AI helps utilities manage existing capacity better""Balance AI autonomy with human oversight" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vik Chaudhry and Buzz Solutions 01:25 Vik's journey from energy engineering to AI in utilities 02:32 How Buzz pivoted from wind to power line inspections 03:57 Core problems in utility infrastructure inspection 05:18 Vegetation management and wildfire risk detection 06:37 Data quality and standardization in inspections 08:04 Case studies with Dominion Energy and American Electric Power 10:11 Storm response and restoration with drone technology 12:10 Partnerships and integration with asset management systems 14:10 Vertical depth of AI models for power utilities 15:37 Future of predictive and prescriptive asset management 20:01 The ladder of autonomy in infrastructure management 21:23 Balancing AI autonomy with human oversight 22:28 Guardrails and safeguards for AI in critical infrastructure 28:51 Workforce challenges and AI's role in training 30:55 Vision for the utility industry in 10 years 33:05 Buzz Solutions' future plans and industry impact

  2. Jul 30

    Powering AI: The Energy Race Behind the Digital Revolution

    In this episode, Mehdi Paryavi discusses the transformative impact of AI as an energy revolution, the importance of energy infrastructure, geopolitical considerations, and the future of data centers and digital economies. Key topics AI as an energy revolutionImportance of energy infrastructure for AIGeopolitical implications of data centersData sovereignty and national securityResponsible development of data centersGlobal digital economy and AI workloadsChallenges with zombie workloads and energy efficiencyRole of government and policy in AI infrastructureFuture technologies like SMRs and renewable energyPredictions for AI industry in 5-10 yearsAI as an Energy Revolution: The Future of Data CentersBuilding the Digital Economy: Energy and Infrastructure Insights"Energy is the defining element for AI development""AI is an over promise and under promise at the same time""Data centers are just a medium, not the problem" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mehdi Paryavi and the show's focus 00:58 AI as a fundamental energy revolution 01:48 Top insights from the latest AI infrastructure report 02:56 Is AI a bubble? Market signals and realities 04:27 The social, ethical, and geopolitical impacts of AI 06:12 Security concerns: cybersecurity and physical threats 07:41 Building national sovereignty through AI infrastructure 08:30 Public pushback against data centers and community concerns 13:28 Role of government and policy in AI development 15:39 Characteristics of the 41 Goldilocks nations 17:39 Global landscape: surprising countries in AI readiness 19:02 Energy consumption, zombie workloads, and future tech 22:30 Industry challenges: workforce, standards, and regulation 24:48 Canada’s potential in AI and data sovereignty 34:53 Key decisions for CEOs and policymakers in AI 38:08 The future of AI industry in 5-10 years 39:22 Final thoughts and closing remarks

  3. Jun 19

    The AI Revolution: Transforming Business and Workforce

    From the evolution of technology transitions and the rise of digital colleagues to practical applications in utilities, banking, retail, and outage management, David shares insights on what it takes to deploy AI responsibly and at scale. The conversation dives into trust, governance, ROI measurement, and why human judgment remains indispensable in an AI-enabled world. Whether you're a CEO, technology leader, or industry practitioner, this episode offers practical perspectives on moving from AI experimentation to enterprise transformation.

  4. May 25

    Ep 10 - Building the Intelligent Utility: GridFM, AI Operations, and the Future of Energy

    In this episode, joins the podcast to discuss how AI, Grid Foundation Models (GridFM), and emerging technologies are reshaping the future of the energy and utilities industry. The conversation explores the growing operational challenges facing utilities, including climate change, electrification, distributed energy resources, and increasing grid complexity. Bryan also shares insights on physics-based modeling, cybersecurity in digital utility environments, and the future potential of quantum computing for grid optimization and intelligent operations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Guest and Background 01:08 Journey into the Utilities Sector 03:10 Transformative Trends in Technology 04:29 Operational Challenges in Utilities 08:55 Introduction to GridFM Models 09:33 The Concept of GridFM and Its Development 12:18 GridFM vs. Traditional Models 13:46 Research and Collaboration in GridFM Development 15:58 Performance Metrics of GridFM Models 18:55 Adoption of AI Models in Utilities 22:35 The Role of Quantum Technology 24:15 Autonomous Grid Operations: A Future Perspective 25:31 Cybersecurity Challenges in Utility Operations 29:21 Innovative Practices Among Forward-Looking Utilities 32:36 Underestimating the Transition to Intelligent Utilities

  5. Mar 11

    Ep 9 - From Data to Decisions: Making Technology & AI Work in Power & Utilities

    In the latest episode of Beyond the Grid, the host sits down with Laurent Boinot, Power & Utilities Americas Leader at Microsoft.Laurent shares his journey into the energy sector and offers a front-row view of how AI, data, and cloud platforms are transforming the utility industry. From AI copilots assisting engineers and field crews, to edge computing powering smarter grids, the discussion explores how technology is reshaping everything from operations to workforce training.They also dive into some of the tougher questions utilities face today:• Why many AI pilots struggle to scale• How utilities can balance IT governance with business innovation• The role of AI in field service safety, cybersecurity, and grid operations• How AI could help streamline regulatory and permitting processesOne theme stood out clearly: AI will not just optimize utilities—it will fundamentally change how utilities operate, train their workforce, and interact with the grid.🎙 In this episode :• AI and the evolving digital utility• Edge computing and IoT in grid operations• Copilots for engineers and field crews• AI in cybersecurity and incident response• Overcoming cultural and organizational barriers to AI adoptionIf you work in energy, utilities, or grid modernization, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.00:00 Introduction to Energy and AI 03:47 The Role of Microsoft in Power and Utilities 07:11 Edge Computing and IoT in Utilities 11:09 Challenges in Utility Adoption of New Technologies 14:58 AI and Copilots in the Utility Sector 22:15 The Future of Workforce Training 23:23 AI in Field Service: Enhancing Safety and Quality 25:32 AI in Cybersecurity: Making Sense of Incidents 27:01 Barriers to AI Adoption in Organizations 29:07 The Balance Between IT Control and Business Innovation 30:32 Navigating the Rapid Pace of AI Change 32:08 Transformative AI Applications in Utilities 34:21 Streamlining Regulatory Processes with AI 38:01 Challenges in Scaling AI Pilots 41:37 Cultural Shifts for Effective AI Implementation

  6. Feb 3

    Ep 8 - From Platform to Power: Microsoft, AI, and the Utility Grid

    In this episode, Swaroop George Kariath hosts Rabia Kamal and Mike Rossi to discuss the intersection of AI, data, and the energy sector. They explore personal journeys into the industry, the challenges utilities face, and the importance of customer experience. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration between IT and business, the significance of data quality, and the role of governance in AI projects. They also share insights on the future of AI in energy, the importance of partnerships, and predictions for the next five years. Takeaways AI's evolution in boardroom conversations Challenges in technology adoption and customer service Data governance and compliance are crucial for successful AI implementation Strategic partnerships and industry knowledge are key to recognition and success The future of the industry will be shaped by agent AI, autonomous workflows, and a new energy mix Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 06:19 Challenges in Energy and Utilities 16:56 Voice Copilots and Field Assist Solutions 24:32 Evolution of AI in Boardroom Conversations 30:32 Advice for Clients 35:33 Bringing Microsoft's Capabilities to Clients 41:25 Neudesic's Recognition as Microsoft Global Partner of the Year 48:43 The Future of the Industry

  7. Jan 13

    Ep 7 | AI in Energy Systems and Trading with Wish Bakshi

    In this episode, Swaroop George Kariath engages with Wish Bakshi, a Founder and AI systems engineer, to explore the intersection of AI and energy systems. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in deploying AI in mission-critical environments, the importance of sustainability, and the evolving landscape of energy management. Wish shares insights from his journey in the industry, current projects, and the future of AI in optimizing energy systems. The conversation also touches on the differences between the US and Canadian energy sectors, governance in AI, and practical advice for organizations looking to adopt AI technologies. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Energy Systems 02:58 Vish Bakshi's Journey in AI and Energy 05:52 Current Projects and Innovations in AI 09:01 Challenges in Power Generation and Data Centers 11:54 The Future of AI in Energy Management 15:06 The Role of AI in Utility Operations 18:02 Sustainability and Environmental Considerations 20:56 Trends in AI and Energy 24:06 The Human Element in AI Deployment 26:56 Scaling AI Solutions in Utilities 30:07 Governance and Ethical Considerations in AI 33:02 Advice for AI Adoption in Utilities 35:59 The Canadian vs. US Energy Landscape 38:55 Final Thoughts on AI and Energy Infrastructure

  8. 12/05/2025

    Ep 3 - Murray Mueller, Grid Operations Expert | Former Director of Grid Operations, NEOM

    In this conversation, Swaroop Kariath interviews Murray Mueller, the Former Director of Grid Operations at Neom, discussing his career journey from a lineman to a leadership role in grid operations. They explore the importance of safety in field operations, the challenges faced in control rooms, and the innovative vision of Neom as a futuristic city aiming for 100% renewable energy. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in transforming grid operations and the potential leadership of the Middle East in the energy sector. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Murry and His Journey 02:54 The Importance of Safety in Field Services 05:49 Understanding the Role of System Controllers 08:24 The Transition from Controller to Leadership 11:25 Exploring Neom: A Futuristic Vision 16:46 Challenges of Achieving 100% Renewable Energy 21:46 Innovations in Control Room Technology 31:40 Navigating Greenfield Projects and Market Design 33:35 The Role of AI in Grid Operations 36:20 Demand Management and Social Awareness in Energy 38:17 Digital Twins and Smart Grid Innovations 41:02 Regulatory Challenges in North America vs. KSA 45:30 The Future of Power Generation in the Middle East 50:14 Cultural Insights and Personal Experiences in KSA

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About

Beyond the Grid is a show about the unseen forces powering our modern world — the electric grid, the people behind it, and the complex systems that keep it all running. From utility workers to policy makers, engineers to innovators, we dive into the stories, challenges, and breakthroughs shaping the future of energy. Whether you're in the industry or just energy-curious, this is where power, people, and everything in between come to light. Beyond the Grid — Power, people, and everything in between.

Information

  • Creator
    Swaroop George Kariath
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Swaroop George Kariath
  • Show Website
    Beyond The Grid