Digitalization & Smart Grids: AI, IoT & Blockchain in Solar Asset Management

Zaid is an Application Engineer at SMA Solar Technology in Dubai, supporting utility-scale PV + BESS projects across the MENA region and acting as a technical focal point for customers andinternal teams. His work is focused on inverter-based resources, including the practical application and behavior of grid-following and grid-forming inverters in real power systems. Before joining SMA, Zaid worked as an O&M Engineer at MASE, where he gained hands-on experience in utility-scale PV plant operation, performance analysis, and repowering support, including exposure to grid-support equipment such as STATCOMs. Zaid holds a B.Sc. in Electrical Power and Energy Engineering from Princess Sumaya University for Technology (PSUT). Alongside his engineering work, he is also interested in data-driven approachesto power systems and energy storage, particularly where analytics and ML can improve reliability, performance, and decision-making in inverter-dominated grids.  

Sangeetha has worked in the energy transition and sustainability space for over 14 years. At EUPD, she tracks market developments closely - from policy and regulatory change to key players, equipment providers and emerging business models. She identifies client's requirements and curates market intelligence products, marketing campaigns, events or bespoke consulting projects to meet them.

Khaled Alazbe is a sustainability and renewable energy professional with a strong background in engineering, public policy, and clean-tech entrepreneurship. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Sustainable and Renewable Energy Engineering and a Master of Public Administration (Public Policy) from the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government. Khaled has contributed to national-level initiatives across the UAE and GCC, including energy and water efficiency policies for government entities, youth capacity-building programs, and cleantech awareness platforms. He has worked with public and private stakeholders on renewable energy, wastewater treatment, green hydrogen, and demand-side management projects. Khaled is the founder of RECAMP.AI, an innovative startup focused on replacing polluting portable generators used in outdoor activities with modular renewable energy solutions. He is also actively engaged in global youth climate and energy networks, advocating for inclusive green growth, youth leadership, and practical climate solutions.

Shantanu Roy is the Sector Coordinator for Renewables and Energy Conservation at the Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP), a leading technology and policy think tank based in Bengaluru, India. With over 17 years of experience across renewable energy, thermal power, and oil & gas, he has led multidisciplinary teams and managed complex projects that drive sustainable energy solutions. At CSTEP, he advances initiatives in rooftop solar, Building-Integrated PV (BIPV), Agrivoltaics and other innovative renewable energy applications, working closely with government bodies and industry stakeholders to design strategies aligned with India's clean energy targets.

Amine Arab is a senior executive and recognized expert in energy flexibility, with over 15 years of experience in Demand Side Management (DSM), grid flexibility, and large-scale energy transformation programs.He currently serves as Managing Director and Chief Development Officer for the MENA region, where he leads strategic business development initiatives and works closely with major utilities, regulators, and system operators across the Middle East. Amine has played a key role in designing and deploying national and regional demand response and flexibility frameworks, supporting the transition towards more resilient, efficient, and decarbonized power systems.His expertise spans regulatory strategy, digital energy platforms, industrial automation, and advanced system integration, with a strong focus on Virtual Power Plants (VPP), DERMS, and real-time grid operations. Amine has extensive hands-on experience working with Transmission and Distribution System Operators (TSOs and DSOs), positioning him at the forefront of next-generation flexibility markets.Through his work, Amine actively contributes to shaping the future of smart grids and energy systems in emerging and mature markets alike, bridging technology, regulation, and business to unlock the full value of flexibility.