Ep. 5 Reinventing the Grid Through Decentralisation
Pratap Revuru, Schneider Electric - Episode 5
Written by: Amanda Rogers | · DEC · | March 19, 2025
The Shift from Centralisation to Decentralisation
For over a century, the global energy sector operated on a centralised model, relying on large power plants to generate electricity and transmit it over vast distances. However, as climate change accelerates and technology advances, this model is rapidly evolving. Pratap Revuru, Senior Director of Microgrid Solutions and Strategic Partnerships at Schneider Electric Canada, is at the forefront of this transformation, leading the shift toward decentralised, clean energy solutions.
“The future of energy is not just about producing more electricity; it’s about producing it smarter, cleaner, and closer to where it’s needed,” says Revuru. With over four decades of experience in power systems engineering, Revuru has witnessed the evolution from traditional grids to modern microgrids and distributed energy resources (DERs).
The Rise of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)
DERs, including solar panels, wind turbines, battery storage, and even small nuclear reactors, are reshaping the energy landscape. Unlike traditional power systems, which relied on centralised plants, DERs enable local generation and storage, improving resilience and reducing transmission losses.
Revuru explains, “DERs are not just about adding renewable energy to the grid. They fundamentally change how we produce, store, and consume electricity. Today, energy can be generated on rooftops, stored in batteries, and managed intelligently to meet real-time demand.”
This decentralisation offers several key benefits:
Increased Resilience: Local generation minimises the impact of grid failures and natural disasters.
Greater Efficiency: Reducing reliance on long-distance transmission and energy optimization.
Lower Carbon Footprint: Maximising renewable energy reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The Emergence of Prosumers
One of the most profound shifts in the energy sector is the rise of the prosumer — individuals or businesses that both produce and consume energy.
“The traditional model was simple: someone produces energy, someone consumes it. That equation is gone,” Revuru notes. “Today, the same household can generate solar power during the day, store it in a battery, and use it at night.”
This shift challenges utilities to rethink their role. Rather than being sole providers, they must become energy partners, managing bi-directional flows of electricity and integrating DERs seamlessly into the grid.
The Business Model Evolution: Energy as a Service (EaaS)
The decentralisation of energy is also transforming business models. One of the most significant changes is the rise of Energy as a Service (EaaS). Instead of customers making large upfront investments in solar panels, batteries, or energy management systems, EaaS allows them to pay a predictable monthly fee.
“EaaS makes clean energy accessible without the financial barriers,” says Revuru. “It’s like a subscription service for energy. The provider handles installation, maintenance, and optimisation, while the customer enjoys reliable, clean power.”
This model not only reduces costs for consumers but also provides revenue stability for energy providers. However, it also requires utilities to rethink their traditional asset management and revenue models.
Addressing Energy Security, Affordability, and Resilience
As energy systems evolve, new challenges emerge. Revuru identifies three critical areas of focus:
Energy Security: The increasing frequency of extreme weather events underscores the need for resilient energy systems. Microgrids, which can operate independently from the main grid, are crucial for ensuring power during outages.
Affordability: With rising energy costs, affordability is a growing concern. “Predictability is key,” Revuru emphasises. “EaaS models and DERs help stabilise costs, reducing reliance on volatile energy markets.”
Grid Resilience: As more electric vehicles (EVs) and DERs connect to the grid, managing demand becomes complex. Smart grids and AI-driven energy management systems are essential for maintaining grid stability.
Schneider Electric’s Innovations: Simplifying Clean Energy Solutions
Schneider Electric is leading the charge in clean energy innovation. Recognised as the #1 Sustainable Company by TIME Magazine in 2024, the company has developed solutions that make clean energy more accessible and manageable.
One of its flagship innovations is Microgrid in a Box — an integrated energy control centre that connects seamlessly with utilities, DERs, and EVs.
“Think of it as an all-in-one solution,” Revuru explains. “It integrates solar, battery storage, EV chargers, and building loads, optimising energy use in real time. It’s designed to be simple for customers while offering advanced functionality behind the scenes.”
Schneider’s EcoStruxure platform further enhances energy management, using AI and IoT to provide real-time data insights, optimise demand, and improve grid reliability.
The Role of AI, IoT, and Digitalisation
Digital technology is the backbone of modern energy systems. AI, IoT, and advanced analytics enable utilities and consumers to make data-driven decisions, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
“With AI, we can predict energy demand, optimise storage, and even identify maintenance needs before failures occur,” says Revuru. “It’s about proactive management rather than reactive fixes.”
Schneider’s EcoStruxure platform has been at the forefront of this digital revolution, offering:
Real-Time Monitoring: Track energy usage, identify inefficiencies, and adjust in real time.
Smart Demand Response: Automatically adjust energy consumption during peak periods.
Enhanced Cybersecurity: Protecting critical infrastructure from digital threats.
Canada’s Path to Energy Leadership
Revuru believes Canada has a unique opportunity to lead in clean energy innovation. With abundant natural resources, a skilled workforce, and a commitment to sustainability, the country can set a global example.
“Canada is rich in clean energy potential, from hydro and wind to solar and geothermal,” he notes. “But leadership requires bold action. We need to invest in infrastructure, support innovation, and create policies that accelerate the energy transition.”
Key areas for growth include:
Electrification: Transitioning from fossil fuels to electricity in transportation, heating, and industry.
Decentralised Energy: Expanding microgrids and DERs to reduce reliance on centralised grids.
Workforce Development: Training the next generation of energy professionals to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry.
A Call to Action
As the energy landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of energy is decentralised, digital, and sustainable. Leaders like Pratap Revuru are not just imagining this future — they are building it.
“We must be bold in our approach to energy innovation,” Revuru concludes. “The willingness to experiment, adapt, and embrace new technologies will define the future of clean energy. It’s not just about keeping the lights on; it’s about creating a resilient, sustainable world for generations to come.”
