Extreme weather, failing infrastructure and rising energy demands are putting our power grids under unprecedented pressure. What if artificial intelligence could not only detect problems before they happen but also prevent disasters like blackouts and wildfires? Utilities are drowning in massive amounts of data, yet often struggle to turn that data into actionable insights.

In this episode of Full Tech Ahead, host Amanda Razani sits down with Vik Chaudhry, Co-Founder and CTO/COO of Buzz Solutions, a company pioneering AI and geospatial intelligence for utilities. With a background in AI, machine learning and energy engineering, Vik has a rare ability to bridge cutting-edge data science with the pressing challenges of modern infrastructure. He’s passionate about transforming the way power grids are monitored, safeguarded and future-proofed. If you’ve ever wondered how AI can literally keep the lights on, this conversation is for you.

TIMESTAMPS:

[00:00] Introduction to Vik Chaudhry and Buzz Solutions
[01:30] What Is Agentic AI and Why Does It Matter?
[04:30] Geospatial Intelligence and Its Role in Utilities
[06:30] Real-World Use Cases of AI in the Power Sector
[09:00] Tackling Grid Modernization and Substation Security
[11:00] Safeguarding the Future of Energy Infrastructure
[12:30] Vegetation Management and the Role of AI

[15:00] Supply Chain Challenges and Predictive Planning
[16:00] The Bigger Picture — AI as the Invention of the 21st Century
[17:00] Closing Reflections and Future Opportunities

Quotes

• “We’re helping utilities turn overwhelming data into actionable insights that literally keep the lights on.” – Vik Chaudhry
  
• “In the 20th century, electricity was the greatest invention. In the 21st, it’s AI.” – Vik Chaudhry
  
• “Utilities don’t just need information — they need insight they can act on.” – Vik Chaudhry
  
• “AI makes it possible to predict problems before they cause outages, saving lives, money, and infrastructure.” – Vik Chaudhry

Takeaways

1. Adopt proactive monitoring: Utilities (and businesses in general) must shift from manual inspection to automated, AI-driven asset monitoring.
   
2. Leverage geospatial data: Mapping infrastructure across time and space creates a foundation for predictive insights.
   
3. Plan ahead with AI: Supply chain delays require predictive modeling to manage assets and avoid crises.
   
4. Think big picture: Like electricity last century, AI will redefine the future — leaders must embrace it now.
   

Find Amanda Razani on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-razani-990a7233/