The digital future at E.ON: AI, innovation and a human touch
Energy and technology are evolving fast – but so are we. Claire Whitmore, Head of Digital Technology at E.ON UK, shares how her team is driving innovation, keeping AI human and shaping the future of energy.
AI, digital twins, VR – technology is reshaping the energy industry, and at E.ON we are making sure we stay ahead of the curve. In a recent interview with Cititec Talent, Claire Whitmore, our Head of Digital Technology, explored how artificial intelligence and innovation are improving how we support our customers and are helping to build a smarter, greener future.
AI: smarter, faster, more personal
“AI is so much more personalised now than it ever was, even 12 months ago,” Claire explains. “And we’re making it more accessible to help support our customers.”
From AI-powered digital twins (a virtual model which is an exact reflection of a physical object, or process – like a power plant - such as Blackburn Meadows) to predictive maintenance tools that prevent issues before they arise, we’re using AI to transform the way energy is managed.
It’s not just about speed, it’s about helping customers make better, more cost-effective decisions. Imagine being able to visualise where an EV charger would sit on your driveway before you even commit to one. Or knowing the best time to charge your car – with specific tariffs – to save money. AI is already making that possible.
And it’s not just about convenience. Tech has the power to change lives. Our PropSol tool is using millions of lines of data to help tackle fuel poverty, identifying those who need help most and sourcing the most cost-effective ways to support them. The energy landscape is evolving, and we’re making sure no one gets left behind.
AI and the human touch
One of the biggest questions in digital transformation is whether AI could create barriers for vulnerable customers. Claire doesn’t shy away from the tricky topics:
“There will always be a human option in customer service.”
And as she points out, we should never assume that vulnerable customers aren’t digitally savvy. “My mum is on the Priority Services Register due to hearing difficulties, but she’s incredibly tech-savvy. Digital tools can empower people when used in the right way.”
The future of AI in energy
So how do we bring people on board with new technologies? “Time will help, but reassurance is key,” Claire says. People worry about data privacy and reliability, and AI isn’t something you can hold in your hand like a smart meter – it’s an evolving, intelligent system. The challenge is building trust.
But AI isn’t just about one tool or solution. “It’s part of a bigger picture,” Claire explains. “'Digital twins, virtual and augmented reality, automation - they all link together in our AI journey.”
Why energy?
For Claire, the energy sector is where technology meets real-world impact. “I like complexity, change, and multi-faceted environments,” she says. “And right now, no industry is transforming like energy.”
From helping customers go greener to ensuring affordability, digital innovation at E.ON is making a difference. AI isn’t the future - it’s already here.