[May 06, 2013] BD6.5m technology overhaul for EWA Tweet May 06, 2013 (Gulf Daily News - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- A RADICAL IT overhaul is being carried out at the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA). The BD 6.5 million project, being implemented by German software giant SAP, will involve the introduction of a hi-tech system to oversee the country's power network. Bahrain is the first country in the GCC to adopt the technology, EWA chief executive Shaikh Nawaf bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said during a signing ceremony and Press conference at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel yesterday. "This will mean the details of all of Bahrain's 350,000 electricity accounts will be integrated under one system -- a process that will be of immense benefit to users," he added. The massive database will be merged with the EWA's call centre, which means call agents will be able to pinpoint consumers' complaints and offer solutions on the spot. "This will not only save time but also increase overall efficiency, as well as minimise issues with users," said Shaikh Nawaf. He explained the new SAP system would automate key operational processes, which would streamline issues to do with relationship-management, billing, metering and network asset management. It is also expected to accelerate the transition to smart energy infrastructure that incorporates renewable energy and cutting-edge metering. "The project will help improve network reliability, preventive maintenance activities and outage response time," said Shaikh Nawaf. He pledged Bahrain was serious about tackling inefficiency and pursuing green policies. "With our eye on Bahrain's future generations, we are committed to stamping out inefficiency, minimising emissions, embracing renewable energy and making the smart grid a reality," he said. SAP president of sales and global managing board member Robert Ensiln revealed more than 2,450 utilities implemented its solutions in 70 countries. ___ (c)2013 the Gulf Daily News (Manama, Bahrain) Visit the Gulf Daily News (Manama, Bahrain) at www.gulf-daily-news.com Distributed by MCT Information Services [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]