CenterPoint Boost Grid Resilience with Neara’s Digital Twin

Sydney-based predictive modelling software company Neara has signed a deal with U.S. energy provider CenterPoint Energy to enhance infrastructure resilience using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). Neara’s advanced 3D digital twin technology will be deployed across CenterPoint’s 8,000-square-kilometer Greater Houston service area. The platform will enable the utility to conduct predictive analysis of its transmission and distribution infrastructure, identifying risks and strengthening the grid against extreme weather events like hurricanes, heat waves, storms, and flash floods.

Following the $1.7 billion damage caused by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024, which left 87% of CenterPoint’s customers without power, this partnership will help reduce the impact and duration of power outages. CenterPoint plans to leverage Neara’s technology to pinpoint critical equipment upgrades, such as pole replacements, while optimizing system upgrades to harden the grid against future threats. This proactive approach is expected to enhance CenterPoint’s preparedness and response to severe weather events, ensuring better outcomes for customers and communities.