Avangrid CEO Pedro Azagra Joins Qatar Economic Forum To Lead Talks On Innovation And Global Energy Investment

Avangrid, Inc., a prominent U.S. energy company and part of the Iberdrola Group, recently took part in the Qatar Economic Forum, where CEO Pedro Azagra contributed to a roundtable discussion focused on the future of global research and development. The session, titled “The Next R&D Hub: Investing in Innovation’s Future”, was hosted by Omar Al-Ansari, Secretary General of the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council.

It brought together 15 executives from various sectors including technology, finance, pharmaceuticals, and energy to discuss the major trends shaping global R&D strategies—such as talent availability, changing regulations, geopolitical challenges, and market opportunities.

Iberdrola, Avangrid’s parent company, ranks as the leading private utility worldwide in R&D investment. The group has allocated more than €1.78 billion to innovation over the past five years, including €403 million in 2024 alone. Iberdrola maintains dedicated innovation teams across its operating regions, including the U.S., Spain, the U.K., Brazil, Australia, and Qatar.

Its regional presence in Qatar is anchored by Iberdrola Innovation Middle East, a research center established in 2016 at the Qatar Science and Technology Park. This center focuses on digitizing electrical systems and applying artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to energy challenges.

Pedro Azagra, CEO of Avangrid, mentioned, “Avangrid and Iberdrola are committed to partnering with Qatari and global business leaders to progress research and development of cutting-edge technologies. As growing innovation, economic development and energy demand require a critical need to invest in energy infrastructure, Avangrid is proud to move forward with our plan to invest $20 billion in the US grid through 2030.”

In the U.S., Avangrid is applying AI to enhance grid efficiency and resilience. The company is using advanced AI tools to increase transmission line capacity by adjusting power flows in real time according to current conditions. This reduces congestion and allows for more efficient energy transmission. Avangrid is also testing a mobile robotic device to conduct AI-powered substation inspections aimed at boosting service reliability.

These efforts reflect Avangrid and Iberdrola’s broader commitment to innovation and sustainability in energy infrastructure. Their investments and initiatives are helping to develop smarter, more resilient power systems while supporting global energy transition goals.