Big data in the energy and transport sectors

Massive amounts of sensor and textual data await the energy and transport sector stakeholders once the digital transformation of the sector reaches its tipping point. This chapter gives a definition of big data application scenarios through examples in different segments of the energy and transport sectors. A mere utilization of existing big data technologies as employed by online businesses will not be sufficient. Domain-specific big data technologies are needed for cyber-physical energy and transport systems, while the focus needs to move beyond big data to smart data technologies. Unless the need for privacy and confidentiality is satisfied, there will always be regulatory uncertainty and barriers to user acceptance of new data-driven offerings. The chapter concludes with recommendations that will help sustain the quality and competitiveness of European infrastructures as it undergoes a digital transformation.