Interview to Marco Borgarello
Director Land and End – Use Energy Efficiency Unit Department
In an era where the energy transition is no longer a distant goal but an immediate necessity, emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Big Data analytics are becoming essential tools in redefining how we produce, consume and manage energy.
We spoke with Marco Borgarello — Director, Land and Use at the Use Energy Efficiency Unit Department, to explore how digital innovation is accelerating the shift towards more sustainable and efficient energy systems—at home, in industry, and across society.
Which emerging digital technologies are expected to play a key role in accelerating the energy transition in the coming years?
The energy transition represents a major challenge, requiring a significant paradigm shift in how energy is produced and consumed across all sectors. Two key drivers of this transformation will be People and Technology.
Digitalization acts as a crucial interface—bridging people and complex systems—by making advanced technologies more accessible and intuitive. It enhances flexibility and optimizes performance, helping to reduce waste and promote a more efficient and sustainable energy supply chain.
Some of the most promising developments are occurring in the residential sector, through smart home technologies, and in manufacturing, evolving from Industry 4.0 solutions to the more recent Industry 5.0 paradigms.
How are digital solutions like AI, IoT, and Big Data analysis transforming the way we optimize energy efficiency?
Improving energy efficiency requires collecting and analyzing a wide range of variables—large volumes of data that help monitor system performance, detect malfunctions, and identify opportunities for optimization.
This becomes even more effective when systems can respond in real time. The latest advances in digitization, especially in machine learning and artificial intelligence, enable predictive capabilities that anticipate issues before they arise. These tools support everything from predictive maintenance to demand forecasting and strategic planning.
“Efficiency will not only mean reducing waste, but also eliminating what could become waste before it even happens.”
Marco Borgarello
Head Energy Efficiency Research Group at Ricerca Sistema Energetico
Building on the example of smart homes like AIACE, how can we expand the conversation from digital innovation in mobility to broader sectors such as housing, industry, and beyond?
Digitization is becoming increasingly integrated into everyday life. Surveys conducted before and after the COVID-19 lockdown revealed a growing trust in digital technologies, as families became more familiar with their benefits and realized that many essential activities would not have been possible without them.
To support this momentum and help overcome lingering barriers, RSE developed a prototype of the home of the future, known as AIACE (Integrated Activities for Comfortable and Efficient Dwellings). This initiative envisions the evolution of smart, NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Buildings) that are fully electric and optimized for energy efficiency.
AIACE functions as a living lab, testing new residential energy systems—especially for heating, cooling, and overall energy management. The project delivers two core messages: “It can be done” and “Here’s how to do it.” It offers practical evidence of feasibility and actionable guidance for moving forward.
Designed with cutting-edge technologies and control systems, AIACE supports high-efficiency energy use, renewable energy integration, and on-site self-consumption—all while ensuring the comfort levels expected by users.