INNOVATION AT AES

APEX 

At AES, we believe that innovation and efficiency go hand in hand. That’s why we created APEX, our continuous improvement program that empowers teams to solve challenges, optimize processes, and drive progress across our global operations. APEX fosters collaboration and accelerates impactful solutions in energy infrastructure, renewables, utilities and beyond.

A group of people wearing hard hats and safety gear stand in front of an industrial facility with large structures emitting steam. The sky is clear with some clouds, and there is a tree on the left side of the image. A signboard with text is visible on the right.

What is APEX?

Since 2006, APEX has been a cornerstone of AES’s commitment to operational excellence. The program provides teams with industry-leading methodologies and tools to identify opportunities, solve complex challenges, and replicate best practices across our businesses. By uniting our people under a common language of innovation, APEX ensures that our solutions are scalable, data-driven, and aligned with the evolving needs of the energy sector.

A control room with multiple monitors displaying data and graphs. A person wearing a white hard hat and headphones is seated at a desk, interacting with the computer setup. Another person in a hard hat is visible in the background. Papers and a keyboard are on the desk.
Illustration of a gray gear with two circular arrows, one blue and one green, surrounding it, symbolizing process or automation.
Proven framework

Standardized methodologies and tools for problem-solving and innovation.

A gray circle with a colorful gradient border transitioning from blue to green on a white background.
Global collaboration

A network of experts sharing knowledge and best practices.

A simple bar chart with three vertical bars of varying heights in gray. The chart has a colorful gradient axis ranging from blue to green.
Scalability

Solutions that can be applied across businesses and regions.

Illustration of a gray database server connected to a network with blue, purple, and green lines.
Measurable impact

Data-driven improvements that enhance reliability, efficiency, and sustainability.

Celebrating game-changing projects

Every year, AES recognizes the most impactful APEX projects through a global competition. Teams compete at local, regional, and global levels, showcasing innovations in energy infrastructure, renewables, utilities, and AI-powered solutions.

 

Some recent winning projects were built around:

  • Renewables: AI-powered wind forecasting and solar performance optimization.
  • Grid and infrastructure: Smart solutions for energy storage and grid stability.
  • AI and digital innovation: Fraud detection and predictive maintenance powered by machine learning.
A person wearing a hard hat and safety glasses stands with arms crossed in front of a large industrial tank under a clear blue sky.