Expert guidance from corporate legal advisor, energy and sustainability legal advisor, IT and AI legal advisor is advisable to ensure adherence to laws and regulations while incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business.
Introduction
Automation means applying machines to tasks previously performed by humans or tasks that would otherwise be impossible. The term “automation” was coined in the automobile industry in 1946.
Automation affects labour structures differently across countries and industries depending on labour availability, reskilling opportunities and economic conditions.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become increasingly relevant in discussions surrounding automation.
Experts such as Dr. Geoffrey Hinton and Elon Musk have expressed concerns regarding the risks associated with advanced AI systems.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has also highlighted the need for a global framework for AI governance.
Automation and AI are designed to improve efficiency and reduce human error; however, concerns remain regarding their impact on employment and social structures.
The Impact of Automation on Society
Automation plays a major role in renewable energy systems by supporting forecasting, energy grid management and operational efficiency.
Real-time monitoring systems enabled through automation help optimize renewable energy generation based on changing weather conditions.
The purpose of automation should remain human-centric.
Machines and automated systems should support humans rather than replace human decision-making and creativity.
The following criteria can guide responsible use of automation:
- Time-lapse management
- Performance degradation support
- Age-related limitations
- Disability-related support
- Inexperience-related assistance
Different sectors respond differently to automation depending on labour costs, social acceptance and technical feasibility.
Fields involving emotional intelligence, management and judgment continue to rely heavily on human involvement.
Automation may reduce repetitive clerical tasks while increasing demand for skilled and quality-focused work.
Questions continue to arise regarding whether automation can generate sufficient employment opportunities after reskilling.
Critics argue that rapid technological progress may disadvantage workers possessing ordinary skills.
Automation and Artificial Intelligence
AI governance has become one of the most debated global issues in recent years.
Discussions surrounding AI now involve ethical regulation, human oversight, accountability and transparency.
The proposed Artificial Intelligence Act of the European Parliament seeks to create harmonized rules governing AI systems.
The proposed legislation focuses on strengthening:
- Data quality standards
- Transparency requirements
- Human oversight mechanisms
- Accountability obligations
- Ethical implementation practices
Critics of the proposed legislation argue that regulations should differ based on AI use cases rather than applying broad restrictions across all AI technologies.
Conclusion
Human-automation collaboration is essential for sustainable development.
Businesses and societies should focus on creating systems where humans and machines complement each other’s strengths.
Automation can contribute significantly toward economic development, renewable energy efficiency and safer industrial operations.
However, ethical concerns, employment impacts and social inequality issues must also be addressed.
Public institutions and regulatory bodies must proactively establish legal frameworks governing AI and automation technologies.
Automation should aim to improve the quality and nature of work rather than eliminate human participation.
Responsible implementation of automation and AI can help create a sustainable and balanced future for society.
Legal Support in the Technology, Infrastructure and Energy Sector
Sources
- Automation | Technology, Types, Rise, History & Examples | Britannica
- Encountering automation: Redefining bodies through stories of technological change
- Christopher Nolan: Very strong parallels between Oppenheimer and scientists worried about AI
- Recent advances in renewable energy automation and energy forecasting
- Towards a Human-Centred Reference Architecture for Next Generation Balanced Automation Systems
- Post-work Futures and Full Automation
- Artificial Intelligence Act
- Collaborative Intelligence: Humans and AI Are Joining Forces
- Managing automation: employment, inequality and ethics in the digital age
Kashu Shubhamoorty (Ms) and Ashwini Panwar (Mr)
Principal Associate at Alaya Legal
