There are a lot of great 'nuggets' in this new @Reuters article about #digitalization and EU #utilities.

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-utilities-tech-foc/coronavirus-accelerates-european-utilities-digital-drive-idUSKCN2560OK

Some highlights (a thread):

"European utilities are having to speed up the adoption of new technologies as the coronavirus crisis forces them to use software, not people, to steer critical infrastructure including plants and grids."

"Utilities that started digital programs before the crisis have been more resilient. In the post-COVID 19 world, many will need to reconsider their technology priorities."

"The creation and use of new technologies is a step change in running infrastructure and retail businesses more efficiently and could boost valuations, analysts and consultants say."

"Companies are investing billions to get big data infrastructure in place that will allow them not only to manage plants and grids efficiently and fast, but also roll out new services and create new revenue streams."

"Utilities have little choice ... concerned that they could be challenged by tech giants such as Alphabet’s Google or oil majors including BP... If they don’t do it then big data giants like Apple and Google will come in with their apps and redefine the client relationship.”