Elia Group & Neanex: Connecting data to accelerate the energy transition

Context / Why this project

As part of the Open Innovation Challenge 2024, Elia Group invited startups and scale-ups to co-develop solutions that address key challenges in the energy sector. The challenge reflects our commitment to fostering collaboration and accelerating innovation across Europe’s energy landscape. Neanex was selected as one of the finalists, with a proposal that aligned closely with our ambition to unlock the potential of digital technologies in infrastructure and asset management.

Approach

Together with Neanex, Elia Group delivered a proof of concept (PoC) using Neanex’s Fundamend platform, an asset twin solution designed to connect data across tools, teams, and lifecycle stages.

Key elements of the approach included:

• Integration across silos:
  For the first time at Elia, data from different systems and departments was connected into a unified ecosystem.
• Open data standards:
  Ensured full data ownership for Elia Group while enabling interoperability and future-proofing.
• Data quality insights:
  The PoC revealed gaps, inconsistencies, and opportunities to harmonize information flows.
• Decision-making support:
  Structured, connected data laid the foundation for more reliable, data-driven decisions throughout the asset lifecycle.

Results & next steps

While the continuation of the collaboration is still under consideration, the PoC clearly demonstrated the value of open, connected data strategies. This initiative shows how digital innovation can directly support the reliability, sustainability, and resilience of Europe’s energy grid.

We thank all stakeholders who contributed to this phase of the collaboration, including the TOMAL team, and everyone who participated in workshops, brainstorms, and feedback sessions.

Partners