Smart metering for the distribution control room

Smart meters, the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) communications networks and the data that is produced are increasingly being used to support the Electric Distribution Control Room and improve Control Room operations. The use of smart meters has expanded beyond billing to become a real-time network of millions of sensors for outage detection, voltage management, power quality events and real-time demand response feedback Smart meter data, when used correctly, extends the capability of outage and distribution management systems, as well as the engineering design capabilities, and improves overall grid management and operation. Several North American utilities have recognized the importance of Smart Meter Operations and are starting a trend of operating the smart meters as part of the overall Distribution Operations and not as an extension of Meter Reading and Customer Services.