Top 6 Technological Advancements Powering the Utilities Industry

The last few years have been tough on the utility industry. The pandemic, new technologies, demand from electric vehicles, and extreme weather have put utility companies at the forefront of consumers’ minds.

Fortunately, engineers and industry leaders are working hard to meet the energy demands of consumers nationwide. What technologies will you find corded to the utility industry? Trace this sector’s success to the power sources showcased below.

Increasing cybersecurity measures

Utility companies saw what can happen when hackers access their systems. Because of the increased threats from cybercriminals using ransomware, utility companies and government agencies are upping their security measures.

Efforts to fortify security measures include adding more systems and training, so employees know how to protect the company and how to react in the case of an attack.

If utility companies don’t prioritize cybersecurity measures, the United States infrastructure could find itself under attack. An attack could have far-reaching damage to the economy and the safety of people in the United States and around the world.

Mobile command center technology

With mobile command center technology from providers like Connected Solutions Group, users can provide connectivity and mobile resources to utility workers in the field when phone service is lacking. Mobile command center technology provides quick response during man-made or natural disasters, bolstering community outreach in areas without vital services.

Mobile command centers are investments in information and connectivity. Communities in areas prone to natural disasters or near areas where man-made disasters can happen benefit from having command centers available. Utility workers and first responders can use mobile command centers to stay connected and maximize efficiency.

Preparing for change

In addition to satisfying customer needs for energy, Utility companies have to anticipate change, given that the energy sector has set its sights on adopting the latest-and-greatest technologies the market has to offer. Remember, the best companies learn how to bob and weave through the waves of change. Resilient leaders will thrive on change, not fail because of it.

To survive, utility companies should accept that change will happen. When companies ignore change and stay the same, other companies will take their place, as they’re better equipped to meet their customers’ ever-evolving needs. Utility company leaders need to be innovative and listen to the ideas of their employees while embracing a digital culture.

Utility company leaders need to take risks and listen to their engineers, especially those who step away from the old ideas of asset-based culture. Utility companies are changing rapidly, which can be equal parts daunting and exciting.

Trusting cloud migration

Utility companies provide the energy that other companies use to drive their innovation and technology. Many utility-company-dependent companies have already moved their information to the cloud. Now, it’s time for the utility companies to do the same.

Cloud migration needs to be coordinated with cybersecurity experts to prevent hackers from accessing information during the move. The cloud can help utility companies manage the overwhelming amount of data they collect throughout the day. For those tech-adverse professionals resisting the ways of tomorrow, it’s time to yank your head from the clouds and acknowledge that cloud migration is less an option and more a requirement.

More reliance on 5G use by utility companies

With 5G becoming the norm with smartphone companies and cellular providers, more utility companies will also rely on 5G to improve energy distribution. Because utility companies rely on smart meters and connected sensors, 5G technology will become essential in sending data. With 5G, the data delivery will become more reliable and secure.

By embracing 5G technology, utility companies will have more opportunities to add renewable energy sources into their preexisting grid. More customers can use smart meters and gadgets, as this technology won’t require special infrastructure upgrades.

Embracing innovative data-collection tools

As utility companies rely on data to make their services more efficient, utility companies will rely on innovative data-collection tools. These include using drones to collect information when conditions are unsafe for workers. Utility companies are using GPS devices to influence engineering design for new construction and field activities.

Wrap up

The latest technology advancements are making utility companies more efficient and reliable. Utility companies will need to embrace changes to become more innovative and energy-efficient to meet the growing needs of their energy-hungry consumers.