Information technology. Its increased importance in the power industry after deregulation

This paper presents the increasing importance of information technology as the electric utility industries undergo divestiture, deregulation, convergence, and globalization. In today's competitive environment, utilities increasingly focus on customer retention, cost reduction and competitive positioning. Decision-making, from system planning to operations and maintenance, is no longer just about finding the most economical solution to meet engineering criteria. It also involves determining customer expectations and finding the best approach to meet these expectations. Many utilities have realized the benefits from using real-time technologies, such as those involving supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and distribution automation systems. These systems have historically improved reliability, reduced operating and capital costs, and have provided invaluable data for system planning, design and operations. The power industry will continue to derive these benefits as well as customer satisfaction and retention by more fully integrating their information and analysis systems. Properly managing and utilizing information will enable the energy companies of the future to be more competitive.