Transitioning from traditional to smart metering infrastructure brings in a host of advantages- improved communication among stakeholders, integration with DERs and greater control over electricity use. However, smart metering projects also encompasses a broad spectrum of complex technologies where proactive management, and maintenance of the varied components within the AMI at all times become a prerequisite. After all, any physical or software failures could result in potential disruption of services, ranging from minutes to sometimes, even days.
In this blog, we will explore how Grid, an operational and utility data management platform facilitates operations & maintenance (O&M) of utility assets within the smart grid infrastructure.
Key Features of Grid Supporting O&M
Grid’s no-code platform can be used by professionals across teams without extensive IT knowledge, streamlining the different steps in smart metering projects. Listed below are some of the ways in which Grid’s features can be leveraged to monitor and maintain the health and functioning of various assets.
Ticketing and task management
Grid’s ticketing and task management module enables utility teams to attain a better grasp of their overall team’s efficiency, with potential issues being quickly identified and resolved. There are various operations within the utility ecosystem that require regular checks for uninterrupted performance and service at all times. Some of the activities include software updates, cabling inspections, inspecting faulty units, etc.
With our no-code platform’s capabilities to track tasks in real time, teams can significantly improve their response times, and in turn, overall productivity. Once a potential problem is detected, a ticket is automatically created, let’s say, a smart meter is not communicating data for 48-72 hours. Once these tickets are created, the technicians who have been assigned these tasks can update the ticket details with their findings and resolution. The platform’s configurability allows teams to set up custom forms that will essentially capture every single important detail, helping resolve the issue at a faster rate.
Asset health monitoring
By conducting health monitoring surveys, utility companies such as smart metering enterprises can ensure the adequate functioning of different assets. These surveys can help identify possible wear and tear in equipment that may threaten the smooth running of operations. Grid seamlessly integrates with IoT devices like smart sensors which helps monitor asset health in near real-time. This functionality not only helps relay consumption data but also the operational status of devices within the infrastructure. Moreover, while conducting manual surveys, field operators can use Grid’s predefined templates to capture essential data with regards to health and functioning of assets. Users can upload the data into forms even in areas of low connectivity, ensuring every critical information is captured.
Another standout feature is Grid’s no-code solution is its advanced GIS functionality. Operators can now visualize the locations of their assets and their conditions on a map. This capability also helps in identifying patterns in asset performance across a geographical outline, which can be leveraged for targeted maintenance efforts.
Real-Life Applications of Grid for Operations and Maintenance (O&M)
Grid’s utility data management solution has enabled many of our clients to streamline and improve the management of various operational assets for faster resolution of issues and improved service delivery.
Use Case: Enhancing asset management for a pipeline project
A gas and water utility company implemented Grid to strengthen its O&M practices, with Grid’s comprehensive asset management and visualization features. Various components within the network such as pipelines, consumer meters, valves, etc were displayed under one overarching interface which provided greater visibility into pipeline conditions. This also allowed for timely interventions as teams can now quickly identify which pipeline segments required urgent intervention.
Firstly the utility needed to gather essential data including:
Geospatial data: This included details about GPS coordinates for all the components like pipelines, valves, pumping stations, meters, etc
Asset information: Here, details were gathered with regards to pipeline type, their serial numbers, operational status, etc
Relational information: Data which signifies specific valves are being supplied by the pipelines, and consumer meter details with regards to monitoring stations or pressure regulations
Data collection methods included field surveys with the field staff visiting each location and gathering geospatial data, or importing legacy information from other sources like MS Excel or SharePoint via file uploads/API integrations.
Once all the details were captured, users were able to view them using Grid’s map widget.
Pipeline node map: Thee pipelines were represented in the form on nodes or lines on a map, and were also color coded based on various criteria (gas pressure, diameter, length, etc)
Asset operational status: All the assets within the project were represented using distinct icons a nap, helping users trace their functioning capabilities in near real-time. For instance, whether the valves are open or closed, or meters communicating data continuously without any hindrances.
Maintenance monitoring: Grid’s map widget offers teams with a comprehensive outline of the entire pipeline network, enabling them to single pipeline segments that call for immediate repair. Additionally, the platform also helps with scheduling maintenance where field users can be allocated in the worksheet across a geographical area for faster resolution.
Use Case: Smart metering asset maintenance
The deployment of large scale projects such as smart metering upgradation requires standardized monitoring of the personnel and assets involved in it. Additionally, these projects can bring in complex challenges like overcoming poor communication channels between staff and management. A utility undertaking a smart meter upgradation project leveraged Grid to monitor performance and health of smart meters. This involved visiting the site once the installation phase is completed and ensuring that every replaced meter is functioning without hindrances.
With Grid, the team unlocked key functionalities such as:
Automatic ticket creation: Whenever an anomaly is detected by the system such as non-communicating meters or trends displaying below-par performance of equipment, tickets are auto-generated via project/work tracking tools like Jira.
Manual ticket allocation: Field personnels can also visit the site of where the meter is located and create tickets manually for issues involving hardware checks or replacement of faulty units. Once the tickets are created, they are assigned to field technicians of that particular region.
Real-time tracking: After resolving the issue, field technicians can use Grid’s frontline app to update the same. The platform provides an option to select tickets from a dropdown menu, with the necessary information being auto-populated upon entering the ticket ID. They were also able to upload images of the meter into the application as proof of the work being done and document the status as ‘completed.’
Conclusion
Grid enables utilities to enhance their O&M efficiency via the simplification of complex tasks like task allocation & management, asset health monitoring and real-time data visualization. With successful use cases such as above that demonstrate improved operational efficiency and service delivery, adopting Grid is a strategic move for any business seeking to minimize service disruptions and maximize consumer satisfaction.
