Is Intelligent Automation the Key to Improved Reliability?
Intelligent automation is a concept that is gaining traction within the utility industry as a means to improve reliability and resiliency. But what exactly is it?
Primer on Intelligent Automation
In a nutshell, intelligent automation refers to the intersection of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate real-time adjustments to equipment and operational processes. Sensors provide inputs into AI algorithms and models, which then crunch the numbers to determine the optimal course of action in a given situation.
According to this article, many electric, gas and water utilities are experimenting with intelligent automation in a variety of ways, especially in ways related to renewable energy. Here are two examples:
- Xcel Energy has placed sensors on its wind turbines that feed AI platforms to produce highly-accurate wind forecasts that are utilized to help optimize the efficiency and reliability of the supply mix. In addition to boosting reliability, the company claims that this approach has reduced customer costs by $60 million.
- Vermont Electric Company utilizes automated intelligence to develop highly localized weather forecasts that are used to optimize usage of individual renewable assets. Customer savings so far are estimated at $6-$9 million.
Despite the positive results from the real-world experimentation, the article claims that utility companies are treading unnecessarily slowly in this area. I think this is to be expected, as utility leaders are naturally conservative when it comes to implementing change. The article claims that the companies leading the intelligent automation charge have the following characteristics:
- A holistic approach to evaluating the results of pilot programs.
- A commitment to investing in technology and headcount to maximize the odds of success.
- A centralized leadership and governance structure to build on pilot program learning and experience.
- A willingness to involve team members in pilot programs.
It truly seems like intelligent automation is the wave of the future, helping utility companies adapt to industry and environmental changes while boosting reliability. But like anything, the technology must be optimally implemented to maximize these benefits. Said another way – go big or go home!
