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Power BI

How to connect to a Power BI semantic model​

This guide explains how to connect to a Power BI Semantic Model directly from Power BI Desktop or Excel, using the published datasets already available in the Power BI Service. To create or edit a report, or connect to an existing dataset, we advise to always work locally with Power BI Desktop.

Prerequisites​

Before connecting, ensure that:

  • You have Power BI desktop installed.
  • You are signed in with your Energy Solutions Group (ESG) Microsoft 365 account.
  • You have a Power BI license assigned to your account. Please contact it@energysolutionsgroup.be if you need one.
  • You have access to the appropriate dataset in the related Power BI workspace.

Connect via Power BI desktop​

1. Download Power BI desktop​

Download the Power BI desktop application directly from the Microsoft store.

2. Open Power BI desktop​

Make sure you are signed in with your ESG account (check the top-right corner).

3. In Power BI desktop​

Create a blank report. Next, navigate to the dataset you want to access: Home → Get Data → Power BI semantic models

4. Select the published dataset​

You’ll see a list of all published semantic models you have access to. Select the one you need.

5. Create visuals in Power BI​

Once connected to the right dataset, you can start building insights in Power BI desktop.

  1. Look at the right-side panel — this is the fields pane.
  2. Expand the available tables and measures to explore your data model.
  3. Drag fields (columns or measures) onto the report canvas to create charts, tables, or cards.
  4. Use the visualizations pane (also on the right) to change chart types — for example, bar, line, pie, or matrix.
  5. Add slicers or filters to make your report interactive.
  6. Rename visuals, format axes, and apply ESG color themes as needed.