Energy data sovereignty: ownership, access and AI in critical infrastructure

As energy systems become more digital, connected and AI-enabled, data is becoming a strategic asset central to operational performance, infrastructure security and national sovereignty. Smart grids, digital twins, AI-enabled operations and automated trading platforms generate sensitive operational, commercial and consumer data at unprecedented scale. The challenge is not only protecting data, but determining who owns it, who can access it and how it can train AI systems. As AI spreads across fields, refineries, grids and trading desks: who owns the value created: the asset owner, operator, technology provider, cloud platform or state? Regulators must clarify data localisation, training rights, vendor access and cross-border transfers. Clear governance can enable innovation while managing national risk, strengthening resilience, building trusted AI ecosystems and protecting critical infrastructure on which the energy system depends.