In the rapidly evolving landscape of construction, a recent study by İsmail Yoşumaz of Kütahya Dumlupinar University sheds light on the transformative power of digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), across the entire project lifecycle. Published in the *International Journal of Management and Data Analytics* (translated as the *International Journal of Management and Data Analytics*), the research offers a comprehensive look at how AI and related technologies are reshaping the industry, with significant implications for the energy sector.
Yoşumaz’s study, which analyzed 41 key documents out of a pool of 201, reveals that technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT), AI, and Digital Twins are driving unprecedented efficiency and innovation. These tools are enhancing design accuracy, enabling predictive maintenance, improving health and safety management, and monitoring sustainability—all critical factors for energy projects.
“AI-based applications are significantly improving resource management, sustainability strategies, and operational reliability in construction,” Yoşumaz explains. This is particularly relevant for the energy sector, where efficiency and sustainability are paramount. For example, AI can optimize energy consumption in smart buildings, reducing costs and environmental impact. Predictive maintenance powered by AI can also minimize downtime in energy infrastructure, ensuring continuous and reliable operations.
The study also highlights the shift from physical to cyber security in digital projects, a critical consideration as construction increasingly relies on interconnected systems. Additionally, the research emphasizes the importance of government-led digital infrastructure and training programs to ensure inclusive transformation. Cloud-based software platforms, tax incentives, and digital literacy programs are recommended to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) integrate into smart city projects, a growing market with substantial commercial potential.
For the energy sector, this research underscores the need for investment in digital tools and AI-driven solutions. As construction projects become more complex and interconnected, the ability to leverage AI for predictive analytics, resource optimization, and sustainability monitoring will be a competitive advantage. The findings suggest that companies that embrace these technologies early will be better positioned to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market.
Yoşumaz’s work not only provides a roadmap for the construction industry but also serves as a call to action for energy companies to adopt digital transformation strategies. As the sector continues to evolve, the integration of AI and other advanced technologies will be key to driving innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. The future of construction—and by extension, the energy sector—lies in the digital realm, and those who adapt will lead the way.