AFWERX Awards Contract to Geminus for Microgrid AI
The U.S. Air Force project aims to optimize power management at military installations through advanced software.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Energy
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AFWERX has awarded a Small Business Innovation Research Phase I contract to Cambridge-based Geminus. The company will develop artificial intelligence software to manage microgrid power distribution for the U.S. Air Force.
Why it matters
The military intends to use this technology to extend the service life of batteries, lower diesel fuel consumption, and ensure consistent power for mission-critical equipment.
The system relies on physics-informed artificial intelligence and digital twins to model and manage microgrids composed of diesel generators and lithium-ion batteries. This Phase I project focuses on integrating these components to optimize distribution.
The players
AFWERX
AFWERX is the innovation arm of the United States Air Force that connects military needs with private sector technology.
Geminus
Geminus is a technology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in artificial intelligence and digital twin systems.
The details
The platform functions by creating digital twins that model the behavior of physical power equipment, combining these models with real-time operating data. This allows the system to evaluate and manage power distribution effectively between generators and battery storage.
Timeline
Geminus announced the contract award on October 27, 2026.
The Big Picture
This project follows the standard developmental path established by the U.S. Air Force's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, which funds early-stage development of military-relevant technologies. It represents a broader shift toward integrating sophisticated AI models into legacy energy infrastructure.
The development of advanced microgrid modeling could eventually lead to more efficient energy management systems for civilian industrial use. Successful pilot programs in the military sector often provide the proof-of-concept necessary for broader infrastructure applications.
The takeaway
Artificial intelligence and digital twins are increasingly used to bridge the gap between physical power infrastructure and modern digital management needs. The success of this project could offer a template for other organizations looking to optimize energy distribution across diverse power sources.
Further reading
For more on evolving power systems, read the latest updates in Energy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Military & Aerospace Electronics.
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