Networking and protocols for AI renewable energy networks

The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and renewable energy is reshaping the landscape of modern power systems, offering new levels of efficiency, resilience, and sustainability. This chapter explores the layered architecture and key technologies, enabling AI-driven renewable energy networks, focusing on the critical role of networking and protocols. It delves into various renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and geothermal, and the corresponding challenges, particularly their intermittent nature. Emphasis is placed on AI's capacity to forecast generation, balance grids, and perform predictive maintenance. Moreover, the integration of communication technologies, ranging from fiber optics and 5G to protocols like MQTT, Modbus, and IEC 61850, is analyzed to illustrate how data flow sustains intelligent energy management. The document also investigates future directions, including 6G, blockchain, and quantum computing, offering a comprehensive perspective on the path toward secure, decentralized, and scalable energy infrastructures. The chapter also highlights the potential and challenges in deploying AI-enhanced, protocol-rich, and sustainable renewable energy networks.