Carrier: Rethinking the Grid for a More Resilient Energy Future

World Climate Foundation
29 minutes ago
2 min read

As global energy demand continues to rise, building a resilient, low-carbon grid is one of the defining challenges of the energy transition. From the rapid growth of data centres to increasing cooling demand driven by climate change, the pressure on energy infrastructure is accelerating.

At the World Climate Investment Summit 2026 in London, Emily Crites, Global Head of Sustainability at Carrier, shares her perspective on how organisations can strengthen grid resilience while accelerating the transition to a low-carbon energy system. Her insights highlight the critical role of collaboration and innovation in building a more flexible, decarbonised energy future.

Every connected asset has a role to play

A more resilient grid requires a shift in mindset. Rather than viewing buildings and equipment as passive energy consumers, they can become active participants in the energy system. Through greater efficiency and flexibility, with technologies such as energy storage, connected assets can help balance demand and support grid stability, she advises.

For businesses, this means looking beyond energy consumption alone and considering how their assets can actively contribute to a more flexible and resilient energy system.

Collaboration is essential for decarbonisation

Building a cleaner, more resilient grid cannot be achieved by any one organisation alone. Success depends on collaboration across industries, with businesses, technology providers and energy stakeholders working together to improve efficiency, integrate renewables and create a more flexible energy system.

This makes collaboration not only an important part of decarbonisation, but practical business imperative as organisations navigate growing energy demand and the transition to a low-carbon economy, Emily says.

Planning for tomorrow's energy demands

As electricity demand continues to grow, Emily says leaders should look beyond today's challenges and prepare for the energy system of the future. With the expansion of data centres and increasing cooling requirements placing further pressure on energy infrastructure, considering how organisations consume, manage and contribute energy will be critical to strengthening resilience while supporting long-term decarbonisation.

A resilient energy future is being built through innovation, collaboration and a shared commitment to transforming how the grid operates - ensuring every connected asset becomes part of the solution.

For businesses, the opportunity is to move from being passive consumers of energy to active participants in a more connected grid.