Optimizing Data Usage for Electric Utilities

Utility Companies Require Remote Monitoring and Automation To Drive Profitability

Driving both profitability and service excellence is one of the key prerogatives for utility companies, and efficiency is essential to bringing those initiatives to life. By enabling remote monitoring of critical components, seamless automated demand response and distribution systems can help increase operational efficiency and enhance overall performance. The integration of advanced technologies in utility operations has become imperative in achieving a delicate balance between cost-effectiveness and service quality.

Utility companies can keep a watchful eye on critical components such as reclosers and voltage regulators by implementing remote monitoring systems. This proactive approach enables real-time assessment of the status and performance of these components, identifying potential issues before they escalate. By remotely monitoring equipment health, utility companies can minimize downtime, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance the reliability of their infrastructure.

Similarly, automation plays a pivotal role in achieving efficiency in utility operations. Automated demand response systems enable utilities to manage and balance energy demand dynamically. This capability is imperative during peak demand periods, allowing utility companies to optimize resource allocation and prevent overloads on the grid. Through seamless automation, utilities can respond swiftly to fluctuations in demand, ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply for consumers.

The deployment of smart technologies, such as IoT (Internet of Things) devices and sensors, further enhances utility companies' capabilities. These devices provide a wealth of data that can be analyzed to gain insights into system performance, energy consumption patterns, and equipment health. Predictive analytics based on this data empower utilities to implement preventive maintenance strategies, predict potential failures, and optimize system performance.

Deploying A Large Cellular Network To Support Hundreds of SCADA Devices

A utility client approached USAT for assistance in upgrading their network infrastructure to connect SCADA devices at strategic points in their distribution network, including key substations.

Their primary objective was to procure, provision, and deploy hundreds of cellular routers across their urban infrastructure to provide connectivity to the SCADA devices. In remote areas, the client wanted to use cellular connectivity as the primary link, while in urban centers, T1 ethernet connections were preferred, with cellular acting as a failover. They utilized various remote terminal units and programmable logic controllers to manage power distribution efficiently.

Cost efficiency was also a priority as the company was concerned with connectivity in urban centers - where ethernet connections proved less reliable than previously anticipated, resulting in escalating data costs.

Our client sought our expertise to optimize data usage without compromising service quality.

Sierra Wireless AirLink RV50x Cellular Routers Provide Reliable and Robust Connectivity

Sierra Wireless AirLink RV50x, a robust and reliable communication gateway, is one of USAT’s go-to solutions for enabling such remote monitoring. Since these routers offer low power consumption and seamless failover capabilities, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity even during network fluctuations, they were the obvious choice to meet our client's needs.

In order to achieve the utility company’s other concerns, including minimizing data usage costs - USAT deployed our professional services team to devise a tailored solution.

The team developed a custom script (for execution with the ALEOS Application Framework) that remotely adjusted the routers' ping intervals based on the connection type, reducing unnecessary data usage while preserving grid reliability.

About the AirLink RV50X

The AirLink RV50X is a rugged, reliable industrial LTE gateway designed to connect critical assets and infrastructure. It is part of Sierra Wireless' AirLink series and is known for its robustness and versatility. The RV50X supports LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) and offers dual SIM support, providing high-speed cellular connectivity for various applications such as industrial automation, remote monitoring, and transportation. Its compact design, industrial-grade construction, and advanced features make it suitable for harsh environments and mission-critical applications.

About MCA and Our CNS Team

MCA is one of the largest and most trusted integrators in the United States, offering world-class voice, data, and security solutions that enhance the quality, safety, and productivity of customers, operations, and lives. More than 65,000 customers trust MCA to provide carefully researched solutions for a safe, secure, and more efficient workplace.

Our Cellular Networking Solutions (CNS) team (formerly known as USAT) is made up of certified experts in designing and deploying fixed and mobile wireless data connectivity solutions for public and private enterprises nationwide - complete with implementation, training, proof of concept (POC), system auditing, and on-site RF surveying services with optional engineering maintenance contracts.

Our extensive catalog of world-class routers, gateways, and software designed for remote monitoring and management in even the harshest environments allows us to deliver a full suite of reliable technologies capped with a service-first approach.