Energy Department CIO Discusses Emerging Technology Challenges

Ann Dunkin, the Department of Energy’s chief information officer, said internal operations could transform because of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

The agency and its national laboratories are evaluating potential AI applications based on a use case inventory published earlier in 2023, FedScoop reported Thursday.

The DOE is also planning a testing environment for generative AI and a user guide connecting the capability with information technology.

In an interview with FedScoop, Dunkin noted that while AI presents many opportunities, the agency has not yet fully understood its implications.

The department is also grappling with wireless and internet of things technology. Dunkin warned that the increasing prevalence of customer-owned smart devices presents a challenge to energy grid cybersecurity because they could be exploited by malicious actors.

Meanwhile, the agency is seeking to reconcile its spectrum requirements with those of the private sector. According to Dunkin, companies want spectrum space needed by the Energy Department for activities such as power grid timing.