TNB Expands AI-Powered Grid System to Modernise Malaysia’s Energy Network
Tenaga Nasional Berhad is accelerating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) across its electricity network as part of efforts to build a smarter, more stable and highly responsive national power grid for the future.
TNB chief digital and information officer Azlan Ahmad said AI has become increasingly important in helping the utility provider manage a power system that is growing more complex due to the rapid adoption of green and digital technologies.
According to him, the growing number of solar panels, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and other new energy sources connected to the grid has significantly increased operational challenges compared to traditional electricity systems.
He explained that while older power systems relied heavily on manual monitoring and human intervention, AI now allows energy networks to analyse conditions and respond much faster and more accurately.
“AI gives the electricity grid capabilities similar to a brain and eyes that can predict, monitor and protect the system in real time.
“It works much like a weather forecasting system that can anticipate changes in electricity demand early so preparations can be made in advance,” he said.
Azlan also described AI as a “smart GPS” capable of identifying the most efficient routes for electricity flow, helping reduce energy waste across the grid network.
Beyond improving efficiency, the technology is also strengthening the safety and reliability of Malaysia’s electricity supply system.
According to him, AI can detect early warning signs of cable faults and network stress before major disruptions occur, enabling engineers to take preventive action earlier.
“It acts like a security guard constantly monitoring the energy system to detect risks and abnormalities before they become serious problems,” he said.
He explained that the development of an “AI-ready grid” represents a major transformation in the energy industry because the new approach focuses on prevention rather than simply repairing faults after outages occur.
TNB is already applying AI across multiple operations, including detecting power tripping patterns, predictive maintenance for underground cables and visual intelligence systems that improve worker safety in the field.
The technology also enables engineers to identify recurring network issues more efficiently while allowing maintenance activities to be performed based on the actual condition of equipment.
Azlan said the approach could significantly reduce the risk of power disruptions while improving overall operational efficiency for the utility provider.
In terms of regional energy development, he added that digital technologies and AI will also help Malaysia prepare for the future ASEAN Power Grid initiative aimed at strengthening secure cross-border electricity connectivity.
Smarter monitoring systems and improved data visibility, he said, would enable energy flows between countries to be managed more safely and efficiently.
At the same time, Azlan said the role of AI in the energy sector will become one of the key focus areas during Energy Transition Conference 2026 (ETCon26), scheduled to take place at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from June 3 to 5.
The conference is expected to be officiated by Anwar Ibrahim and will carry the theme “Energy & AI: The Synergy for Energy Transition”.
According to Azlan, the event will focus on how AI and energy technologies can work together to accelerate Malaysia’s green energy transition while ensuring the benefits of innovation are shared more inclusively with the public.
He stressed that AI adoption is not merely about modern technology, but forms part of the country’s long-term strategy to create a more sustainable, efficient and future-ready energy system.
-wilayah.com.my
