Operational Efficiency Meets AI: The Value of Adaptive Digital Twins in Energy
Vítor Lopes – Regional Manager, Systems, Digital Twins & Missions, Ansys
At FDTUSA 2024, Ansys presented a compelling vision for the future of operational efficiency through adaptive digital twins—highlighting the convergence of digital engineering, simulation, and AI. Delivered by Vítor Lopes, the presentation positioned hybrid digital twins as a strategic bridge from system design through to real-world operations and sustainment, enabling faster, smarter, and more sustainable decision-making across the energy sector.
Ansys emphasised the evolution of digital twins from static virtual models to integrated, AI-enhanced systems capable of real-time calibration, predictive maintenance, and performance optimisation. Their platform brings together multi-physics simulation, data, and AI/ML in scalable, deployable solutions that adapt over time—unlocking new levels of explainability, efficiency, and fidelity.
The presentation showcased Tata Steel Netherlands as a key example, where Ansys solutions led to a 30–40% reduction in CO₂ emissions, significant downtime savings, and increased production capacity—demonstrating the tangible impact of adaptive digital twins.
By enabling virtual validation, minimising physical testing, and streamlining commissioning processes, Ansys is helping accelerate the energy transition and industrial digitalisation. Their hybrid approach empowers operators, designers, and testers to achieve better outcomes, faster—proving that digital twins are not just digital reflections, but dynamic engines of operational intelligence and sustainability.
