Beyond Energy Newsletter
July 2025
Infrastructure as Code: essential for scaling
A note from Edwin Lizarazo, Principal Data Engineer at Hypercube
Managing infrastructure through graphical interfaces might seem straightforward, but as data platforms grow, this approach quickly shows its limits. Infrastructure as Code (IaC) isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental shift that brings software engineering principles like version control, automation, and consistency to infrastructure management.
In diverse environments and across teams, manual UI configurations can lead to errors, delays, and lack of transparency. IaC solves these challenges by making infrastructure repeatable and auditable, allowing teams to scale with confidence.
I’ve outlined why IaC matters, how it transforms workflows, and shared practical steps for adopting it so you’re ready to build more reliable, scalable data platforms.
Edwin Lizarazo | Principal Data Engineer
Microgrid management
Data and automation are powering smarter, more efficient microgrids.
Microgrids are local, self-sufficient power networks growing in importance as flexible solutions for energy resilience and sustainability. Managing these complex systems requires advanced tools and automation to balance generation, storage, and loads seamlessly.
Dr Ivona Voroneckaja breaks down the core components and control systems behind microgrid management, and why integration of energy management systems (EMS), controllers, communication networks, and automatic transfer switches is critical for reliable operation.
- Microgrids operate off grid or connected to the main network
- Automation improves flexibility, efficiency, and resilience
- EMS and controllers act as the “brain” of the system
- Communication and transfer switches enable real-time control and seamless switching
Navigating Interoperability and Security Risks in the Energy Landscape
Rob Taylor, Group CIO at GivEnergy, the UK-based leader in domestic battery storage, shares how a sky-high energy bill kickstarted his journey into smart energy innovation.
Now driving GivEnergy’s software division, Rob discusses the company’s commitment to open APIs, cloud-based platforms, and seamless integrations across batteries, EV chargers, and home energy systems. With the energy landscape still fragmented, he explains why standards like the Mercury initiative are essential to achieving interoperability at scale.
The conversation also explores the less-visible risks: security vulnerabilities in global hardware and software supply chains, and how the industry can better safeguard long-term infrastructure. Rob outlines how domestic and grid-scale storage must work hand in hand to reach national net-zero targets, and why financial incentives, installation complexity, and equity gaps remain major roadblocks.
Adam and Rob cover:
- The bill that launched Rob’s energy tech journey
- Why open APIs are key to smarter home systems
- How the Mercury initiative tackles interoperability
- Security blind spots in devices and software
- Beyond batteries: building the intelligent home
- Fixing adoption gaps with better incentives
Getting Buy-In for Data & AI Projects
Got a promising AI or data project but struggling to get it off the ground? It’s rarely a tech problem - it’s about making the case.
Join Hypercube on Tuesday 5th August for a lunchtime webinar where CEO Adam Sroka shares a clear, practical approach to winning buy-in and getting your initiative moving.
- Common blockers to AI project adoption
- A proven framework for structuring your pitch
- How to communicate ROI in a way that sticks
- Addressing risk and building a realistic roadmap
- Real-world examples of successful AI projects
- Free guide to help you align stakeholders and build momentum
Hypercube supports Prewired Summer Make-a-Thon 2025
Hypercube proudly sponsored the 2025 Prewired Make-a-Thon, a youth tech event focused on sustainability and innovation. Hosted at CodeBase Edinburgh, the event brought together 25 young participants (ages 11–16) to tackle environmental challenges using coding, AI, and robotics.
With support from Hypercube engineers Eilidh Pike and India Thomson, teams created projects ranging from carbon trackers to recycling AI and low-emission transport tools. The event showcased creativity, collaboration, and real-world impact.
We’re proud to support the next generation of tech talent and promote innovation in STEM.
On-premise vs cloud: what’s best?
Deciding on on-premise or cloud infrastructure is critical. On-premise gives greater control and compliance ease but involves high costs and maintenance. Cloud delivers flexibility, quick scaling, and cost efficiency through pay-as-you-go. Understanding these trade-offs is vital for a successful migration strategy.
Key takeaways:
- Moving from static reporting to predictive, real-time insights
- Using data to reduce downtime and increase asset yield
- Bridging the gap between engineering, ops, and analytics
- Preparing for co-located sites, market volatility, and storage at scale
Race Across Glasgow - Hypercube Style!
Hypercube recently held an exciting city-wide challenge across Glasgow, inspired by Race Across the World. Teams navigated key locations, completing tasks like taking photos, collecting Scottish-themed souvenirs, and experiencing local culture, including trying iconic treats like the deep fried Mars bar.
Highlights included wearing Jimmy hats, meeting someone in a kilt, and plenty of laughs, all driven by great teamwork and high energy. Despite Glasgow’s rainy weather, the event showcased creativity and strong collaboration throughout.
Plans are already underway for the next team adventure.
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Ransomware targets on-premises Sharepoint servers
Senior Cloud Engineer Graeme Stirling breaks down two actively exploited SharePoint vulnerabilities linked to ransomware campaigns. Learn what’s affected, how attackers are breaching systems, and the urgent steps needed to secure your environment.
What to know:
- Two critical flaws (authentication bypass and remote code execution) actively exploited
- Malicious web shells used to steal keys, escalate privileges, and spread ransomware
- Immediate patching, IIS restart, and key rotation required for full protection
- Proactive vulnerability management and cloud migration enhance security posture
