Process framework for Smart Grid implementation

Transition to Smart Grid involves tracking the deployment in multiple functional areas of the utility. This is often carried out by periodic reviews of identified metrics for each functional area. The level of development and deployment that has been already realized needs to be assessed at the initial stage and at important milestones to progress along the roadmap. One of the primary requirements to achieve this is to have a comprehensive process framework and business tools to manage various aspects of Smart Grid implementation - the framework should be able to support the Smart Grid implementation from planning stages to final deployment and evaluation. Smart Grid Maturity Model [8] from SEI of CMU provides a comprehensive set of characteristics covering all the domains of Smart Grid deployment. The proposed process framework extends the SGMM by using other tools available to develop Characteristic Evidence Indicators (CEI) [15], [16] - this will improve the objectivity of the assessments resulting in more practical value and leading to deeper insights to drive and accelerate the transition to a Smart Grid.