TMCnet News
Integration of Distribution Automation and AMI Networks Key to Maximizing the Benefits of Smart Grid Deployments, According to Navigant ResearchBOULDER, Colo. --(Business Wire)-- As the smart grid sector matures, utilities are turning their focus to integrating advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) more deeply into the grid, particularly for use in distribution automation (DA) applications. These applications include outage management, restoration verification, load monitoring and profiling, asset and condition monitoring, and the integration of distributed generation assets. Click to tweet: According to a recent report from Navigant Research, the integration of DA systems and applications with previously deployed or planned AMI systems will be key to successful utility smart grid deployments in the coming years. "The integration of advanced metering infrastructure and distribution automation will help utilities wring further financial benefits out of past investments and strengthen their AMI business cases before regulators," says Richelle Elberg, senior research analyst with Navigant Research. "In addition, this synthesis will deliver important cost savings to utilities, particularly in cases where AMI communications networks can deliver relevant data in a timely manner, obviating the need for standalone DA communications networks." For a variety of reasons, however, the integration of AMI and DA systems presents a number of challenges to utilities. Potential obstacles, according to the report, can be found in AMI communications networks that are insufficiently robust, and in organizational silos where customer-facing (AMI) and network operations (DA) departments have not historically been required to collaborate. In addition, the sheer volume of raw data these new systems will delivermeans that new information technology and analytics solutions will become increasingly critical to program success. The report, "AMI and Distribution Automation Integration", examines the opportunities and challenges faced by utilities seeking to integrate AMI and DA systems with the smart grid. The report provides an overview of the current state of the global AMI and DA markets, as well as a review of the communications networking technologies employed in each. Various DA applications appropriate for integration with AMI systems and their communications networks are also analyzed. Global market forecasts of components of AMI/DA integration, including smart meters for DA applications and integrated routers, extend through 2020. The report also provides a general outlook for AMI/DA integration and profiles of key market participants. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the Navigant Research website. About Navigant Research Navigant Research, the dedicated research arm of Navigant, provides market research and benchmarking services for rapidly changing and often highly regulated industries. In the energy sector, Navigant Research focuses on in-depth analysis and reporting about global clean technology markets. The team's research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Smart Energy, Smart Utilities, Smart Transportation, and Smart Buildings sectors. Additional information about Navigant Research can be found at www.navigantresearch.com. About Navigant Navigant is a specialized, global expert services firm dedicated to assisting clients in creating and protecting value in the face of critical business risks and opportunities. Through senior level engagement with clients, Navigant professionals combine technical expertise in Disputes and Investigations, Economics, Financial Advisory and Management Consulting, with business pragmatism in the highly regulated Construction, Energy, Financial Services and Healthcare industries to support clients in addressing their most critical business needs. More information about Navigant can be found at www.navigant.com. * The information contained in this press release concerning the report, "AMI and Distribution Automation Integration," is a summary and reflects Navigant Research's current expectations based on market data and trend analysis. Market predictions and expectations are inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from those contained in this press release or the report. Please refer to the full report for a complete understanding of the assumptions underlying the report's conclusions and the methodologies used to create the report. Neither Navigant Research nor Navigant undertakes any obligation to update any of the information contained in this press release or the report.
|
