Sustainability has become a driving force in technological innovation, particularly in data science and AI. With increasing global awareness of climate change and resource management, industries are leveraging data to create more sustainable solutions. From optimizing energy consumption to predicting environmental impacts, data science plays a pivotal role in shaping a greener future.
In recent years, major technology firms have emphasized sustainability in their business strategies. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), data centers and AI infrastructure account for approximately 1% of global electricity demand, a figure expected to rise with growing reliance on machine learning and big data. As a result, sustainable coding and efficient data management have become essential for reducing the carbon footprint of technology-driven industries.
What is a datathon?
A datathon is an intense time-bound competition where teams analyze and interpret complex datasets to solve real-world challenges. Unlike traditional hackathons that focus on coding, datathons emphasize data modeling, machine learning and predictive analytics. These competitions have gained immense popularity in the tech world as companies seek innovative data-driven solutions to address pressing industry challenges.
Inside the IE Sustainability Datathon 2024
The IE Sustainability Datathon 2024, hosted by IE School of Science & Technology, is a premier competition where participants tackle a sustainability challenge using predictive modeling. Sponsored by EDP, a leader in renewable energy, the event focuses on enhancing Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for a more reliable and efficient clean energy transition.
The event challenges participants to produce the most precise market forecasts for the UK energy sector, ensuring that batteries are charged and discharged efficiently to balance renewable energy supply and demand. The goal is to maximize profitability while supporting a smooth transition to a sustainable energy grid.
Student experiences: Insights from participants
A problem-solving approach
Participants Andres Befeler and Luis Kalckstein, both first-year Bachelor in Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence students, shared insights on how they tackled the datathon. Their strategy involved dedicating the initial phase to fully understanding the business problem before diving into data modeling.
Our approach was to identify the biggest pain-points in the business case and brainstorm how AI could tackle those challenges.”
– Luis Kalckstein
Innovative data solutions
To handle missing values in the dataset provided by EDP, their team utilized XGBoost, a machine learning model widely used for regression and classification tasks. Instead of employing traditional imputation techniques like mean replacement, they leveraged XGBoost to predict missing values, ensuring a cleaner and more accurate dataset for their forecasting model. Andres told us that “We used XGBoost just for cleaning our dataset. There were a lot of missing values so we needed to predict them using a model instead of just filling them with averages.”
Overcoming challenges
But one of the biggest hurdles for the team was balancing academic commitments with the competition deadline. On the final day, both students had classes and an exam, making it difficult to complete their final model submission. “We needed to work just before the exam to get a better result which happened at the end,” said Andres.
Our commitment to sustainability
IE University has long championed sustainability across its academic programs and extracurricular activities. Through initiatives like the IE Sustainability Datathon 2024, students gain hands-on experience in applying data science to real-world environmental challenges. The collaboration with EDP, a global leader in renewable energy, underscores IE University’s dedication to fostering innovation in sustainable technology.
Beyond competitions, IE University integrates sustainability into its curriculum, offering specialized programs in environmental sciences, business analytics and sustainable innovation. The university’s focus on interdisciplinary learning prepares students to drive impactful change in their careers.
Join the IE Sustainability Datathon 2025
If you’re passionate about data, sustainability and innovation, the IE Sustainability Datathon 2025 is the perfect platform to showcase your skills. Whether you’re a seasoned data scientist or a beginner eager to learn, this competition offers:
- A chance to work on a real-world sustainability challenge.
- Networking opportunities with industry professionals and top mentors.
- A chance to win exciting prizes and boost your resume.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the sustainable data revolution. Register now and take your first step toward shaping the future of clean energy!