Weekly Brief

Will Edge Computing Redefine Electric Utilities?

By Utilities Tech Outlook | Thursday, July 16, 2020

The power of edge computing is transforming many aspects of the services provided by electric utilities.

FREMONT, CA: Electric utilities are busy developing technology infrastructure that the edge. As customer expectations evolve, and energy demands escalate, it is high time for utility companies to undertake digital transformations continuously. Edge Computing serves the purpose here. From backing disruptive technological applications to making customer services, edge computing is playing an integral role today. The traditional ways of handling utility facilities and services are now losing relevance and making way for IoT applications, real-time computing, and powerful analytics. The importance of edge computing in the utility industry can be understood from the following points.

The Essential Intervention for Data

Distributed end-points are highly advantageous from the perspective of data accumulation and subsequent derivation of insights. Edge computing enables utility companies to access data from across distributed facilities and process the same at the location. This eliminates the lag associated with retrieving and transmitting data. Besides, the overheads related to network connectivity is also minimized. With edge computing, electric utilitie

s are leveraging analytics in the best ways.

Enhanced Outreach to Customers
The modernization of infrastructure also involves the electric companies taking the initiative to introduce smart meters. Smart meters have the potential to offer customers a lot of control. With smart meters at the edge, companies are also aided. Electric utilities are now able to maintain direct connect with customers and provide reliable, transparent, and highly satisfying services to the millennial customers.
Predictive Maintenance Capabilities

Electric utilities have an extensive amount of infrastructure. Keeping a tab on the maintenance has conventionally been challenging for operators. With edge computing, utility companies can undertake effective predictive maintenance and enhance the longevity of equipment. Besides, workers involved in the maintenance tasks can also benefit from edge devices that reinforce safety measures.

As electric utilities modernize, edge computing will become a significant determinant of the quality of services and business success.