A report to redefine the future of the sector: trends, challenges, and models to accelerate the transition
The energy sector is undergoing an unprecedented transformation, driven by the transition toward a more decarbonized, digital, and distributed model. In this context, innovation means far more than launching pilot projects: it requires anticipating regulatory changes, making strategic decisions in uncertain environments, and building capabilities able to scale emerging technologies. Companies must balance autonomy with business alignment, professionalize their scaling models, and develop a culture that promotes controlled risk-taking, agility, and experimentation.
Sector leaders agree that the greatest challenge is connecting innovation with the business without slowing down its speed, creativity, or impact. This view is reinforced by clear trends: a more strategic role for innovation, new hybrid structures that combine agility and governance, metrics focused on real impact, and growing openness to the ecosystem through venture clienting, partnerships, and CVC. In addition, global investment is becoming more selective and mature, concentrating on clean, digital, and scalable technologies—particularly AI, operational efficiency, storage, hydrogen, and decarbonization solutions.
According to NTT DATA’s analysis, the future of the sector will depend on solid innovation models, with well‑designed architectures, strong leadership, and a deep connection to corporate strategy. Only organizations capable of integrating technology, ecosystem collaboration, and an innovation‑driven culture will be able to anticipate trends, scale new solutions, and lead the transition toward a more flexible, efficient, and resilient energy system.
The report provides a comprehensive view of how organizational maturity, operating models, and investments are evolving to address this new stage of the sector.
