EST&P Alumni Working in AI

The Energy Science, Technology & Policy program launched its Master of Science (M.S.) in Artificial Intelligence – Energy Science, Technology & Policy degree for the Fall 2025 application. With this new degree, we wanted to bring forward two EST&P alumni who are currently working in AI, to touch on the importance of AI in the energy industry.

Ziming Yang (M.S. '19)

"AI is becoming increasingly critical in traditional industries such as energy, manufacturing, and agriculture due to its ability to automate complex tasks, optimize processes, and enhance decision-making. As a Software Engineer at Brookhaven National Laboratory, I’ve witnessed firsthand the DOE (Department of Energy)’s growing investment in AI technologies across both natural and social sciences in recent years. In my current role, I am part of a project that leverages machine learning to accelerate research in bioinformatics, demonstrating AI's transformative potential in scientific research.

I’m excited to hear that EST&P is launching a new program that integrates AI technology. This will provide students with a valuable skill set, making them more competitive in the job market and preparing them for the growing influence of AI across industries."

Lifei Tu (M.S. '20)

"The energy industry is undergoing significant changes, and artificial intelligence (AI) and data science are becoming essential tools in this transformation. As we transition toward cleaner energy sources and more complex systems, these technologies help optimize operations, enhance decision-making, and promote sustainability.

During my studies at Carnegie Mellon University, where I earned a Master’s degree in Energy Science, Technology, and Policy, I developed a strong foundation in data science and optimization. These subjects not only fascinated me but also highlighted the real-world impact of data-driven decisions in the energy sector. This academic experience led to my current role as a Python Engineer, where I apply these tools to solve real-life energy challenges.

From my professional experience, price forecasting is one of the most important applications of AI in the energy industry. Given the unpredictable and volatile nature of energy markets, accurate forecasts are crucial for making better decisions. Machine learning models, based on historical data or fundamental analysis, generate predictions that guide trading strategies and optimize energy distribution.

Renewable energy optimization is another key area where data science plays a vital role. Due to the stochastic nature of wind and solar power, predicting their output can be challenging. However, advanced modeling allows us to better estimate renewable energy generation, helping grid operators integrate these sources more smoothly. Similarly, battery optimization benefits from machine learning algorithms that ensure batteries charge and discharge at optimal times, improving grid stability and reducing costs.

AI and data science also play a critical role in anomaly detection. By monitoring energy assets and grid performance in real time, AI models can detect potential issues before they escalate, allowing for quick responses to prevent outages and ensure system reliability.
Reflecting on both my academic and professional experiences, I see how AI and data science are transforming the energy sector. They offer powerful solutions to complex problems, making energy systems smarter and more efficient. The more I apply these technologies, the more I understand their significance for creating a sustainable and resilient energy future."

Our Fall 2025 application is still open through January 15th!