- We are here to get Norwegian and Scandinavian start-ups in the energy sector up and running.
Christian Askvik-Hansen
- Somebody has to run faster
And test the new technology at the same time. This is how CEO Christian Askvik-Hansen at Prelect explains how and why they work with AI to develop the interaction between physical and digital infrastructure.
Prelect is a subsidiary of regional hydro power producer and long-time DIG partner Eviny. He also serves on the board of Eviny Ventures, the company’s venture fund aiming to invest in companies that could potentially play a key role in renewable future.
AI – the key to speeding things up
The core business idea of Prelect is to enable owners and operators of electrical infrastructure to take full advantage of AI-solutions so that they can optimize their operations. – There is a complex interaction between physical infrastructure and digital infrastructure. We are dedicated to solving these issues. We create the connections between technologists and others, he says. Bringing technologists and business developers together in the same companies has and working together solving problems in real time has proven to be a key to their success. – How do we work to improve our digital technology while also improving our own business, this is the question, says Christian Askvik-Hansen.
- We are here to get Norwegian and Scandinavian start-ups in the energy sector up and running. Eviny exploits the potential in the start-ups and develops technology that we later use in our own operations, Christian Askvik-Hansen says. – We are investing in companies that often become our suppliers, he says.
Seeking a close relationship with academic research
- We are working on optimizing use of resources, and DIG’s research and subjects are right at the heart of what we do, Askvik-Hansen tells. He adds that they are seeking to work as closely as possible with academia and research. – Here, researchers can work closely with technologists who are developing tools that will be launched in the market within a short time. The technologists will also benefit from considering the economy when making decisions for the future, he says. He further explains that this is why he, Prelect and the venture part of Eviny is now responsible for managing and developing future relations with DIG.
Competing for expertise and operational experience
- We are looking for expertise in several fields of expertise. We need technicians as well as data system developers. We are sensing that recruiting to companies within Eviny is getting slightly easier, but it is hard to find people with operational experience, Christian Askvik-Hansen says while commenting on the challenges caused by the demographic changes. – The youngsters need to work together with seniors that’s the only way to develop expertise and skills. We need a good working environment where everybody can develop further, he says.
Hear from partners in Digdir
The Norwegian Digitalisation Agency (Digdir) works with DIG to stay connected with research groups nationally and internationally. – We need access to the best researchers and a strong network in Norway and internationally in the fields of AI and transformation.
Delivering for members through DIG-partnership
Virke is the main industry and employer association for the retail and services sector in Norway, with members from all parts of the sector. They gain insight, and with it, also more political relevance for their members through DIG.