Google has launched its newest weather forecasting model called WeatherNext 3, a significant step in harnessing artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency in the energy industry. The new model predicts wind speed at an impressive 100 metres above the ground, roughly the height of a modern wind turbine, and also forecasts cloud cover and how much sunlight reaches the surface.
This achievement marks a major breakthrough for Google's AI weather forecasting capabilities, which have already been used by other companies to provide valuable insights to energy traders, grid operators, and developers. These predictions are updated hourly and have the potential to revolutionize the way we manage our energy systems.
The rollout of WeatherNext 3 is seen as a key development in Google's efforts to integrate AI into various sectors beyond search, including climate science and renewable energy. With its advanced forecasting capabilities, Google can better prepare for extreme weather events and optimize wind turbine performance, ultimately reducing energy costs and increasing efficiency in the grid.