Title
Advanced Metering Infrastructure and Distribution Automation Project (B)
Staff recommends approval of the final ranking of firms and authorization to negotiate in order of ranking a contract with those firms for infrastructure and software applications necessary to implement the project.
Explanation
The utility has very limited capability to remotely communicate with electric, gas and water meters and other utility distribution systems equipment. The acquisition and implementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) includes a robust two-way communications platform that will enable the deployment of advanced metering applications in all systems as well as the adoption of reliability and quality focused operating practices for those utilities.
AMI enables meters to be read on a scheduled and "on demand" basis, customer accounts to be initiated or terminated remotely, and service reliability and quality to be monitored and enhanced. All such services enable a more efficient servicing of accounts and the opportunity to realize the utility's goal of Total Service Excellence.
AMI also provides utility operators with an enhanced and detailed view of the distribution systems' performance, the ability to remotely operate and manage system devices and equipment, and the ability to apply automated switching and isolation strategies (DA). All of these advanced capabilities will promote a reduction in the magnitude and duration of service interruptions and service quality concerns.
The utility has developed a two phase pilot project that will evaluate the effectiveness and benefits of an AMI and its associated advanced communication system. This approach will enable bi-directional data sharing on a trial basis with specific metering infrastructure and distribution systems equipment. The AMI project will be deployed initially within the boundaries of the Innovation District and will enable the delivery of enhanced utility services along with advanced d...
Click here for full text