AI trumps physics.
I know that sounds brash, but it’s actually true, and an important insight for builders—especially in complex sectors like energy, bioinformatics, and other deep tech areas.
Artificial intelligence isn’t a panacea that can just be bolted on. It must be understood and applied properly. But if you do, it can unlock unprecedented insight on problems with patterns too complex for traditional physics and analytical methods to recognize and manage.
There are MASSIVE opportunities where you can apply AI to spaces at the intersection of bits and atoms, but founders (and investors!) need a deep understanding of both the fundamental science AND the cutting edge of artificial intelligence.
Here’s an example: solar concentration plants have massive potential to power grids with clean energy, but optimal performance requires the incredibly precise—and continuously changing—orchestration of hundreds of high performance mirrors to make sure no energy is wasted. But there’s error creep. It’s extremely hard to constantly optimize the positioning of sensitive equipment at industrial scale. Enter [@ Heliogen]. They use AI to manage huge quantities of real world data to perfectly optimize the entire system for the absolutely maximal output. It just wouldn’t be possible to handle the scale and speed without the thoughtful application of AI.
In my podcast discussion with Ryan Grant Little I unpack the world-changing implications for AI + climate tech, my advice for founders on how to build an effective board, and my predictions for what innovations are coming next.
https://lnkd.in/d2NFTfCQ