Artificial Intelligence (AI) is gaining widespread attention as numerous institutions, companies, and applications harness this cutting-edge technology.
While some remain cautious about integrating AI, others view it as an opportunity to provide more convenient and cost-effective services to consumers.
AI for industrial operations
Aboitiz Data Innovation (ADI), an Aboitiz-led data science and AI start-up, has partnered with a Thai company this year to develop digital tools and equipment management solutions for the industrial sector.
Luis F. Gonzalez, ADI Chief Data and AI Officer, announced the company’s collaboration with Thailand-based REPCO NEX Industrial Solutions (REPCO NEX) to create innovative solutions to enhance machine maintenance and performance.
While this partnership brings a foreign perspective to innovation, Gonzalez emphasized that adapting their approach will make the joint venture effective in the Philippines.
“This partnership is truly collaborative; it’s the first time we’re integrating their model while modifying it to fit the Philippine context,” he told reporters on the sidelines of Enlit Asia 2024 in Kuala Lumpur.
He explained that the venture aims to “Philippinize” REPCO’s framework, as many challenges in the country differ significantly from those in Thailand and other nations.
“Our operational methods in the Philippines are distinct from those in Thailand. It’s challenging—we are navigating numerous unknowns, but progress is being made,” Gonzalez said.
“There are practices we implement in our power plants that are rare elsewhere.”
He highlighted several challenges faced by the Philippines, particularly concerning coal usage, interconnectivity, and the diverse operations and formats of power plants.
“I don’t want our plants to operate like those in Europe or North America; I want them to excel within an Asian paradigm that recognizes our limitations. We aim to achieve more with less, and this is a distinctly Filipino approach,” he asserted.
In addition to initiating AI integration, Gonzalez hopes this partnership will inspire Filipino students to pursue careers in engineering.
AI for power management
Turning to residential concerns, Aboitiz Power Distribution Utilities is also exploring new technological innovations to facilitate easier household electricity management.
Anton Perdices, AboitizPower Chief Operating Officer, shared his vision for the next service upgrade, which includes live tracking of power consumption and service technicians.
He drew a parallel to popular ride-hailing apps and hopes to incorporate similar features into Mobile AP, an online application that allows users to monitor their consumption and pay bills without visiting Bayad Centers.
“I want to see real-time consumption. If I’m at home, can I turn off my appliance or air conditioner to observe the consumption rate drop? We genuinely want people to control their utility bills and receive their bills in seconds,” he emphasized, highlighting the significance of power conservation and management.
“They will understand the factors influencing their power bills, prompting them to reconsider whether to turn off their air conditioner at night or decide when to use the washer for specific loads while manually washing the rest. Should they use a dryer or air-dry their clothes?” Perdices provided examples.
Another feature he envisions for Mobile AP is the ability for consumers to monitor technicians through a live tracking map interface when they require services in the future.
Currently, the application serves as a comprehensive tool for efficient energy management, enabling users to track monthly bills, spending, and consumption, supervise tenants, manage distribution utility accounts, and view scheduled or emergency power outages.