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Hosted by: Utilities

Since their inception, utilities have been obligated to deliver essential services safely, reliably, and cost effectively.  These obligations still exist, but today it is harder than ever before to meet them.  Revenues are declining; infrastructure is more vulnerable; new competitors are gaining traction; regulatory mandates are changing; and customers are demanding more. 

Utilities everywhere are seriously re-examining their strategies.  Are there new business models that make sense?  Is the asset portfolio right for today’s conditions?  Should there be a change in trading strategy?  How receptive will regulators be to new approaches?  At the same time, utilities are stepping up efforts to improve day to day operations.  How can we engage our customers?  Are there ways to streamline operations?  How can we predict and prevent damaging events?

There is no question that the speed of change is accelerated by digital technology – social media, streaming video, drones and IoT.  Information technology, operational technology and communications are now available to improve how the company operates.  Companies that learn how to harness digital technology will transform the industry in ways we are only beginning to imagine.  The challenge will be in identifying technology that will be “future proof”.

This session will provide attendees with an analyst’s perspective on the capabilities utilities will need in the next year and beyond.  Attendees will learn about trends that will have a profound effect on water, gas and electric utilities in North America.  The session will explore how quickly action is needed; what technologies can be assembled to support needed capabilities; and how to plan for changes in processes and people.

Speaker:

Jill Feblowitz, President, Feblowitz Energy Consulting