Architects of Ardian: Innovation and data intelligence

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Architects of Ardian: Innovation and data intelligence

  • 24 June 2024

  • Real Assets

  • Infrastructure

Reading time: 3 minutes

    In this series, we tell the stories behind how Ardian’s portfolio companies create lasting change in their sectors. For us, embracing change is more than a statement - through our digital platforms, which include Ardian Car Carbon, Ardian Air Carbon, and OPTA, we are leading a journey of innovation towards a more sustainable and resilient future in the infrastructure and energy sectors – we believe that looking far ahead is the key to success.

    Digital innovation to reduce road traffic emissions

    Digital innovation to reduce road traffic emissions 

    In a collaborative effort with Ascendi, one of the leading operators of Portuguese motorways, and Wintics, an expert in computer vision technology, we’ve developed Car Carbon, a state-of-the-art data collection platform. This tool integrates seamlessly with Ascendi’s systems, providing detailed traffic data by vehicle type. Its precision allows us to leverage digital innovation to measure and reduce road traffic emissions on highways.

    We believe digital innovation plays a key role in designing and executing decarbonization initiatives. Car Carbon and Ascendi's collaboration with Wintics are great examples of how Ardian portfolio companies accelerate digitalization and promote a long-term vision for sustainability and value creation.

    Pauline Thomson, Director and Head of Digital Innovation, Infrastructure, Ardian

    The path to net-zero aviation

    The path to net-zero aviation

    Ardian Air Carbon supports our endeavor to assist airports in achieving carbon neutrality. This digital platform, developed through close collaboration with airports in our portfolio, plays a pivotal role in monitoring and simulating decarbonization paths, focusing principally on reducing Scope 3 emissions. A pioneering solution, the platform is built around two main features: Estimate and Project. Estimate uses real-time operational data to monitor carbon emissions whilst Project provides emission trajectory for up to ten years. 

    In example of the platform’s success, Air Carbon participant Turin Airport has achieved accreditation to Level 3 'Optimization' of the Airport Carbon Accreditation program, promoted by ACI Europe, the association of European airports.

    Data intelligence for clean energy

    Data intelligence for clean energy

    OPTA, our in-house renewable energy management platform, oversees over 2.5GW of renewable energy generation and storage assets. OPTA not only enhances operational efficiency but also promotes maximization of financial performance. This approach reflects our belief in building to last, with every decision made having a positive, broad, and enduring impact.

    Having access to the best possible digital tools is essential. Our in-house project Opta aims to optimize operations of our wind farm and minimize consequences or intermittency which will be crucial for renewable energy to become the dominant source of electricity production.

    Marion Calcine, Chief Investment Officer Infrastructure, Ardian

    Innovating to create lasting change

    Innovating to create lasting change

    We aim not just to meet our ESG objectives but to set an example for the industry. Our Transport Working Group is a testament to this effort as it fosters collaboration and shares best practices in decarbonization, enhancing the resilience of the sectors we operate in.

    Our initiatives across these platforms underscore a fundamental Ardian philosophy: sustainability is achieved through innovation and responsible investment – a future built on collaboration and innovation. From reducing emissions in the transportation sector to optimizing renewable energy assets for stability and efficiency, our commitment to the environment and a sustainable future remains resolute.

    We are convinced that data-driven solutions will optimize and integrate energy systems, allowing them to become ‘augmented’ and finally overcome the inefficiencies between production, transmission, distribution and consumption. After an era of overconsumption and waste, the future of energy will be characterized by security and sustainability. Technology and data driven solutions will be the backbone of this critical revolution.Mathias Burghardt, Executive Vice-President, CEO of Ardian France and Head of Infrastructure.