Electric utility distribution systems looked and operated much the same for decades. But that’s been changing of late. Consumers, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders are demanding more in power quality, service reliability, consideration of environmental issues, and cost savings. Smart grid devices hold promise of new answers—and they’ll have an impact on electric utility distribution operations control centers.

Electric utilities, equipment manufacturers, and software companies have been developing and implementing advanced technology systems on the distribution system to satisfy sophisticated consumers, demanding regulators, and cost-conscious stakeholders. While these technological advances are welcomed, utility companies must take actions to ensure that their distribution operations control centers can take advantage what they offer. These actions should include addressing how these new technologies will impact system management, data security, change management, knowledge management, and training.

The full article in the November issue of KEMA’s free Automation Insight newsletter: http://www.kema.com/services/consulting/utility-future/smart-grid/november-2009.aspx