Integrated information systems in a privatized and deregulated electricity market

The traditional energy management system (EMS) has, until recently, remained isolated from other electric utility information systems, putting limits on its potential to the power company. Today, information technology (IT) can offer efficient and cost-justified solutions for the integration of these resources, and the value of IT is being increasingly recognized by many power companies. The current wave of privatisation, deregulation and market orientation of the electric energy market in many parts of the world has created new challenges. Power companies are now cast in the role of energy service companies instead of energy suppliers. The increasing competition and the requirements for improved overall economy and quality of services is accelerating the demand for more accurate and up-to-date information. Information has become a strategic resource. To exploit its full potential for all users, the keyword is integration. Technical, business and administrative applications need to be viewed in a corporate wide perspective. A revised IT strategy has become a tool for positioning the power company in a competitive market.