Integrating AI into Energy Systems: The approach of the Global Climate Hub

Energy systems are facing multiple complex challenges, related to factors such as environmental, climate change, social, economic and market, variations in supply and demand patterns, and infrastructure, to name a few. The Global Climate Hub (GCH) is a research-led initiative operating within the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network framework, and mobilizes nine research units to deliver holistic, equitable, and context-specific energy solutions. These units leverage advanced modelling tools, participatory frameworks, and Open Science principles to support resilient, equitable, and sustainable energy transitions. The integration of new technologies in energy systems planning is key to facilitate the workflows of the GCH, and support a sustainable energy transition. This chapter explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the GCH's transdisciplinary approach to energy systems planning. AI offers transformative capabilities, enabling efficient data analysis, predictive modelling, resource optimization, stakeholder engagement and Open Science. We describe how the major advantages of AI can be integrated in existing approaches developed by the GCH, including climate scenario development, decarbonization pathways design, participatory approaches, and digital applications. While AI's integration into GCH processes is ongoing, the chapter presents a foundational framework for AI-enabled energy planning and invites collaboration to advance global sustainability goals through innovative, inclusive, and scalable solutions.