Schneider Electric Strengthens AI in Products and Processes

Schneider Electric has been recognized for its AI solutions at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos. CEO Olivier Blum emphasized the increasingly important role of AI in the energy sector and the necessity of seamlessly integrating technologies into existing processes.

Summary

  • Schneider Electric has been recognized for the second time for AI solutions within the WEF’s MINDS program.
  • The company has developed models that allow for the scalable deployment of AI solutions without extensive pilots.
  • Internal and customer-focused AI policies help the organization create direct economic value and conquer strategic markets.

Schneider Electric’s Approach

Olivier Blum stated that we have entered a new era where AI and energy are inextricably linked. Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management, plays a central role in the challenge of supporting the AI revolution while promoting sustainability goals.

A Value-Driven Strategy

Philippe Rambach, the chief AI officer, leads the team that currently has nearly 100 AI use cases in production, spread across customer-focused applications and internal operations. His approach focuses on creating value for both customers and employees, with a strong emphasis on concrete business objectives.

Internal and Customer-Focused AI Applications

Schneider Electric’s approach aims to realize immediate financial benefits through internal AI applications. Customer-focused applications are more oriented towards the long term and are tailored to regional markets.

Integration of AI into Existing Systems

Rather than developing separate AI products, Schneider Electric integrates AI into existing systems. This optimizes the user experience and increases productivity within the organization.

An Organization Designed for Scalability

What distinguishes Schneider Electric is its organizational culture focused on rapidly achieving impact. The emphasis is on rolling out AI applications rather than getting stuck in the pilot phase.

Measuring Value Without Waiting for Certainty

Measuring the economic value of AI is a challenge, especially for customer-focused products. Schneider Electric employs clear KPIs and monitors performance indicators to evaluate progress.

Lessons for Other Companies

  • Start with business value, not technology. It’s not about what is possible, but about real business needs.
  • Involve employees in development. The knowledge of frontline workers is crucial for effective AI applications.
  • Integrate AI into existing workflows. This facilitates user adoption.
  • Design for scalability from the outset. This promotes the success of initiatives.
  • Invest in targeted training. Different roles require different levels of AI knowledge.
  • Balance between analytical and generative AI. For many use cases, traditional machine learning still delivers significant value.

Schneider Electric offers a model for organizations looking to go beyond experimentation in their executive search and interim management. By investing in a smart, value-based AI approach, the company has achieved successes in both customer service and internal efficiency.

**Source:** Thomas H. Davenport and Randy Bean, March 16, 2026, https://sloanreview.mit.edu/article/how-schneider-electric-scales-ai-in-both-products-and-processes/

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