Can the digital transition accelerate the energy transition in Europe?

Europe stands at a decisive crossroads where digital transformation and energy transition must advance together to address climate challenges. The sustainable development goals adopted by the United Nations and the European Union emphasize the urgency of climate action while modernizing energy systems and integrating new technologies. Energy consumption per capita remains a key indicator of economic growth and quality of life, but it must now align with sustainability principles.

Digitization plays a central role in this evolution. With tools like smart meters, it is possible to collect and analyze real-time data on electricity production and consumption. This information enables optimized grid management and better integration of renewable energies, which are inherently intermittent. Artificial intelligence provides solutions to anticipate needs, balance supply and demand, and reduce waste. For example, algorithms can predict consumption peaks or redirect energy surpluses to storage systems or alternative uses.

However, not all European countries are progressing at the same pace. Some, like Sweden or Denmark, lead by example with advanced infrastructure and strong adoption of green technologies. Others, on the contrary, struggle to keep up, particularly due to gaps in digital skills or insufficient investment. Romania illustrates these disparities: although the country has high-performance broadband networks, the use of digital public services is among the lowest in the Union. Local small and medium-sized enterprises are only beginning to adopt greener practices, while advanced digital skills remain scarce.

Energy remains a pillar of economic development, but its future depends on the ability to reconcile efficiency, supply security, and environmental respect. Digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things or blockchain, enable the creation of more flexible and transparent energy systems. They also facilitate the emergence of new economic models, such as peer-to-peer energy sharing platforms or smart electrical grids.

Yet, the transition is not limited to technology. It also requires coherent public policies, targeted investments in infrastructure, and better workforce training. The goals set for 2030, such as universal access to very high-speed broadband or carbon neutrality, cannot be achieved without strengthened cooperation among states, businesses, and citizens. The challenge is immense: it involves not only modernizing tools but also rethinking production and consumption patterns to make them more efficient and equitable.

The challenge is twofold: reducing greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring universal access to affordable energy. This requires better integration of renewable energies, smarter resource management, and active involvement from all stakeholders, from industries to households. Without accelerating efforts, the gaps between countries risk widening, thereby jeopardizing Europe’s climate ambitions. The digital transition is not an end in itself but an essential lever for building a resilient and sustainable energy system.

Data and Sources

Official Study Source

DOI: https://doi.org/10.53941/eem.2026.100002

Title: Digitalization, Energy Systems, and Sustainable Development Goals: An Ecological Economic Analysis of EU Member States

Journal: Ecological Economics and Management

Publisher: Scilight Press Pty Ltd

Authors: Nicolae Magdas; Melinda Timea Fülöp