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Powering the future: how Platned and IFS are transforming the power generation industry

Dan Young, Regional Sales Director

Dan Young, Regional Sales Director

17/04/2025

The global power generation industry is facing huge challenges. The infrastructure built decades ago is no longer enough to keep up with the growing demand for energy, climate change, and the shift to renewable sources. At the same time, technology is rapidly changing how energy is produced, distributed, and consumed.

To succeed in this evolving landscape, utilities need more than just minor updates to their operations. They need to fully transform their systems and ways of working – with the help of intelligent technologies and experienced partners who understand the energy transition.

That’s where Platned and IFS come in.

A strong partnership for energy transformation

Platned, in collaboration with IFS, provides advanced software solutions designed specifically for the power generation industry. By combining Platned’s industry expertise with IFS Cloud™ technology, we help utilities modernise their operations, improve asset management, and build a skilled workforce ready for the future.

We focus on three key areas that will help utilities thrive in the years ahead: balancing supply and demand, making smarter investments in infrastructure, and empowering the next generation of workers.

Balancing supply and demand in a changing grid

The traditional power grid was designed with predictable energy usage in mind. However, today’s energy demand is much more variable, driven by things like electric vehicles, the growth of AI, and extreme weather events. Additionally, renewable sources like wind and solar don’t always generate power when it’s needed.

To keep up, utilities need flexibility and real-time insights.

IFS Cloud™ helps by offering AI-driven forecasting models that predict energy demand, allowing utilities to adjust their operations accordingly. Along with tools for engaging customers and encouraging off-peak energy use, this technology helps utilities stabilise supply and reduce the risk of blackouts.

Platned makes sure that these advanced tools are successfully implemented. We help utilities translate this complex technology into actionable steps, ensuring that energy providers can meet both their operational and customer satisfaction goals.

Investing in smarter, more resilient infrastructure

Much of the world’s power grid is old, and the infrastructure is beginning to fail. Utilities are facing increasing costs, unexpected outages, and the need to replace outdated equipment. At the same time, investment funds are limited, so utilities must be strategic in how they allocate resources.

IFS Cloud™ supports smarter asset management by providing real-time monitoring of equipment, predictive maintenance, and AI-powered risk assessments. These features help utilities extend the lifespan of their assets and prevent costly failures.

Platned helps utilities integrate these solutions into their day-to-day operations, whether they’re managing offshore wind farms, overseeing large solar installations, or maintaining traditional power plants. We also support the integration of tools like GIS mapping and mobile workforce solutions, making it easier to manage the entire asset lifecycle.

This holistic approach not only reduces downtime but also improves overall grid stability, ensuring that utilities can meet future energy demands.

Addressing the talent gap and building the workforce of tomorrow

A major challenge for the power sector is the workforce gap. As experienced workers retire, fewer young professionals are entering the industry. Utilities need to quickly train new employees and ensure that valuable knowledge is passed down.

IFS Cloud™ provides mobile workforce tools, real-time collaboration features, and AI-driven scheduling to improve worker productivity. These tools help workers access the information they need in the field, reducing the risk of errors and delays.

Platned takes this a step further by providing tailored training, workforce development, and digital knowledge-sharing solutions. We work with utilities to build training programs, create partnerships with educational institutions, and ensure that employees have the skills needed to drive the energy transition forward.

With Platned and IFS, energy providers can equip their teams with the digital tools they need to succeed, whether they’re in the office, at the power plant, or out in the field.

Delivering real-world results for power generation

When utilities partner with Platned and IFS, the benefits are clear and impactful:

  • Lower costs through proactive maintenance and smarter asset management
  • Less downtime, thanks to real-time monitoring and predictive analytics
  • Better profitability by optimising energy production and workforce efficiency
  • Greater sustainability through smarter energy management and fewer emissions
  • Increased resilience to climate events, market shifts, and regulatory changes

Our solutions help energy companies move from reactive, emergency-based operations to a proactive, data-driven approach – one that prepares them for the challenges of the future.

Ready for the future of power

The shift to a modern, flexible, and sustainable power grid is happening now. The decisions utilities make today will define the energy landscape for decades to come. Platned and IFS believe that with the right tools, strategy, and support, utilities can not only manage these challenges but also lead the way in the energy transition.

With IFS Cloud™ at the heart of operations and Platned guiding your transformation, your organisation will be equipped to:

  • Scale up renewable energy sources
  • Balance supply and demand in real-time
  • Modernise ageing infrastructure
  • Build a skilled workforce
  • And drive long-term sustainability

Are you ready to future-proof your operations and lead the charge for a smarter, more sustainable power grid?

Contact us today to learn more about how Platned and IFS can help you power up for the future.

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