Emerging Electrical Engineering Innovations for 2025

Electrical engineering is at the intersection of today’s most innovative technologies, driving the creation of a more sustainable future and a better quality of life. Advanced applications such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), renewable energies, and autonomous vehicles all rely on contributions by electrical engineers to function. These advancements address critical societal challenges by developing solutions to reduce carbon emissions and increase efficiency.

This article will explore the newest trends that are driving the future of electrical engineering.

What’s Driving Innovation in Electrical Engineering?

Advancements in technology have exploded, driven in large part by the rapid acceleration of AI, which is contributing to both the need for massive data collection and renewable energy options.¹ This is driving innovation in electrical engineering in a number of ways.

Digital Transformation and the Integration of IoT and AI in Engineering

Business has increasingly moved online, a process known as the digital transformation. As businesses digitize their operations, they gain unprecedented ability to collect, analyze, and leverage data for strategic advantage. IoT technology is allowing companies to extend their data collection capabilities through remote sensors. One of the most promising applications of AI is in data analytics, where programs help leaders make informed decisions, predict trends, and solve problems.²

Global Push for Clean Energy and Decarbonization

There has been a tremendous surge in the demand for clean energy around the world. According to the World Economic Forum, clean power was responsible for over 40% of global power generation in 2024. As cities and countries attempt to meet sustainability goals and cope with an aging fossil fuel infrastructure, electrical engineers are developing more efficient solar and wind electricity-generating systems.³

Investment in Infrastructure, Smart Cities, and Electric Vehicles

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) was passed in 2021 and allocated $1.2 trillion to improving and creating physical and digital infrastructure, including smart cities. Smart cities rely on connectivity to transmit data that allows engineers and city leaders to allocate resources effectively. They also include renewable energy infrastructure, such as electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Electrical engineers design many of the components and systems used in smart cities.⁴

Top Innovations Shaping 2025 and Beyond

In response to the drivers listed above, electrical engineers are designing systems for the following innovations:

AI and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning (ML) programs are being used for predictive maintenance and grid optimization in smart cities. These programs connect many different devices and sensors to the systems that control them. AI programs can use ML to automatically control traffic signals or allocate electricity based on demand.⁵

Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT sensors and programs facilitate real-time monitoring of energy and systems. These sensors transmit data via wireless connections. Electrical engineers work on the infrastructure to provide connectivity as well as the devices themselves.⁵

EV Infrastructure

The shift to EVs is integral to building smart cities. This eco-friendly transportation option can reduce operational costs, lower sound pollution, and decrease dependency on fossil fuels.⁶ To make the adoption of EVs possible, cities have to provide the infrastructure to support them. This includes smart charging stations and battery technology.

Smart Grids and Microgrids

AI and big data allow for far more granular and efficient control of energy. Smart grids and microgrids both play a role in resilient, decentralized energy delivery. A smart grid enables two-way communication through digital technology. It analyzes, monitors, and controls communication between the consumer and the utility source. It can dynamically optimize power delivery, boosting output during high demand and scaling back when usage drops, to improve system efficiency.⁷

Microgrids are designed to deliver power to smaller areas. They work as a standalone model, or they can connect with other microgrids to serve a larger area. The ability to switch between models increases the reliability and versatility of the microgrid.⁷

Advanced Renewable Integration

According to global consulting firm McKinsey & Co., there are two main challenges in renewable energy adoption: network inadequacy and network instability. Network inadequacy is being addressed by the addition of more renewable energy-generating systems. Network reliability depends on being able to store the energy generated. Battery energy storage systems can store renewable energy so that it can be used during peak demand times when there isn’t enough production.⁸

How These Innovations Are Changing Engineering Careers

Together, these innovations are changing the future of electrical engineering. There are new roles in energy systems, automation, and smart infrastructure that are leading to an increased demand for engineers with data and software fluency. To develop these new technologies, electrical engineers are working in cross-functional teams alongside IT specialists, urban planners, energy experts, and other industry professionals.

Electrical engineering isn’t an isolated field anymore. It’s integrated into technologies that rely on input from many other fields of engineering and industries.⁹

Skills Needed to Keep Up with the Future

Modern electrical engineers need a strong foundation in these emerging technologies to be competitive in today’s job market. The skills you’ll need to develop and implement future-ready technology include the following:

AI and ML Fundamentals and Systems Thinking

AI and ML are incorporated into almost all aspects of electrical engineering, including signal processing, control systems, and power processing. Engineers who understand and can apply AI technology will be better equipped to develop applications for predictive maintenance of electrical infrastructure, fault detection in power grids, and real-time load forecasting. All of these applications rely on systems thinking, which is essential for managing today’s highly complex and interconnected engineering networks.

Embedded Systems and Programming

Electrical engineering jobs frequently rely on embedded systems and programming. Engineers need to use tools such as low-level programming languages and common communication protocols to enable these systems.

Sustainable Engineering Practices

Many emerging technologies in electrical engineering are centered around renewable energy trends. These require a deep understanding of modern power systems, including renewable integration, smart grid technologies, and energy storage systems. Common topics include grid-tied solar and wind systems, DC microgrids, and battery management systems.

Create the Future of Electrical Engineering

At Bradley University, you can earn a BS in Electrical Engineering, which will equip you with the skills needed to lead and shape the future of electrical engineering. Our rigorous curriculum covers subjects such as electric machines, electric power systems, autonomous robots, and renewable energy systems. You’ll learn from our expert faculty on your own schedule. Our immersive learning environment is designed to encourage you to apply what you’ve learned to complex real-world challenges.

Our engineering programs are ABET-accredited, which means they’re accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission, a requirement for you to obtain professional licensing. Start your career in this exciting and rewarding field by contacting one of our Admission Advisors today.