Santee Cooper partners with Google for AI-driven forecasting and financial planning
South Carolina's public power and water utility Santee Cooper has partnered with Google to modernize its operations using artificial intelligence tools. The collaboration includes the use of Google’s WeatherNext 2, an advanced weather modeling technology designed to improve medium-range forecasts up to 15 days ahead. This is expected to enhance load forecasting accuracy for Santee Cooper's power grid and help save millions annually by reducing emergency procurement costs. In addition to improved weather forecasting, Santee Cooper will use Google’s Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform to accelerate financial planning processes. The utility aims to automate routine tasks while maintaining human oversight of risk management functions. CFO Tami Wilson emphasized the shift from legacy systems as part of a broader digital transformation strategy that leverages both generative and agentic AI for different operational needs. Google Cloud's Raiford Smith highlighted Gemini Enterprise’s role in providing intelligent automation tailored to complex utility infrastructure, including scenario-based financial planning tools integrated into major projects like Santee Cooper’s $10 billion grid expansion. The partnership is expected to significantly improve forecasting accuracy and reduce costs associated with weather-related power fluctuations.
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Topics: artificial intelligence digital tools public utilities utility sector transformation