What Is Digital Engineering? White Paper - Date: July 3, 2019 |
Over the past few decades, BIM has revolutionized the engineering, construction and design industries. But as digital engineering continues to evolve, we still haven’t leveraged the full potential of emerging technology.
Most organizations that own and operate assets are aware that they must leverage technology to continue to meet business objectives and industry standards. However, the concept of digital engineering still seems out of reach to most.
For many asset owners, simply digitiz
ing existing asset data and drawings can be the first step in the journey. Once their data is clean, secure and accessible, they can begin to develop and explore other technologies.
This whitepaper introduces the concept of digital engineering, including a glossary of terms, to provide you with the information you need to start your digital transformation journey.
OVERVIEW
Digital Engineering is a multi-dimension model representation of graphical and non-graphical asset data shared in a common data environment. It encompasses the whole of design, construction, operations and maintenance and is commonly comprised of 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D and 6D visualizations. For asset owners and managers, it allows full visibility and control, reducing safety risks and improving productivity.
2D: DOCUMENTS
Considerations might include capital costs (the costs of purchasing and installing a component), its associated running costs and the cost of renewal or replacement down the line. These calculations can be made based on the data and associated information linked to components within the graphical model. This information allows cost managers to create a material or component level take-off on a project, applying rates to those quantities, thereby reaching an overall cost for the development.
Digitizing 2D drawings and documentation, removing duplicates and updating metadata fields in your chosen data management system enables the search, editing and sharing of engineering data and drawings within a single source of truth.
3D: THE SHARED INFORMATION MODEL
Creating graphic and non-graphic information and sharing this information in a Common Data Environment (CDE). As the project lifecycle progresses, this information becomes richer in detail until the point at which the project data is handed over to a client or asset owner at completion. Different Levels of Development (LOD) are nominated at the start of a project to assist the designer with how much data is required to satisfy project deliverables.
4D: TIME (CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCING)
4D adds an extra dimension of information to a project information model in the form of scheduling data. This data is added to components which will build in detail as the project progresses. This information can be used to obtain accurate program information and visualizations showing how the project will develop. Time-related information for an element might include information on lead time, how long it takes to install or construct and the sequence in which components should be installed.
6D includes information to support facilities management and operations to drive better business outcomes. This data might include the manufacturer of a component, its instal¬lation date, required maintenance, energy performance, lifespan and decommissioning data. Where this approach really comes into its own is in allowing managers to pre-plan maintenance activities. This proactive ap¬proach offers significant benefits over a more reactive one.
5D: COST
Considerations might include capital costs (the costs of purchasing and installing a component), its associated running costs and the cost of renewal or replacement down the line. These calculations can be made based on the data and associated information linked to components within the graphical model. This information allows cost managers to create a material or component level take-off on a project, applying rates to those quantities, thereby reaching an overall cost for the development.
6D: ASSET INFORMATION MODEL
6D includes information to support facilities management and operations to drive better business outcomes. This data might include the manufacturer of a component, its instal¬lation date, required maintenance, energy performance, lifespan and decommissioning data. Where this approach really comes into its own is in allowing managers to pre-plan maintenance activities. This proactive ap¬proach offers significant benefits over a more reactive one.
DIGITAL TWIN
A digital twin is a data rich, 3D model of a physical asset such as a turbine, pump or an entire plant. The digital twin represents the physical aspects of the model and the data associated with the asset.
The digital twin captures real-time data from the physical object to represent the asset’s condition. It allows a shift to predictive maintenance, based on both historical and real-time data.
A digital twin is only as good as the data on which it is built and the real-time data that it collects. An effective digital twin strategy requires a comprehensive data set for each asset including engineering data, plant design, specifications, as-built, commissioning and maintenance history.
A strategy must be in place to maintain the data to ensure it remains current and accurate, especially from the point of view of maintenance and upgrades. Lidar, photogrammetry and drone scanning are other sources of data when the original designs are unavailable or if you are dealing with an ‘older’ asset. A series of scans can be completed then ‘stitched’ together to convert physical assets into digital ones.
Want to know more about Digital Twins? Ask us about our current project with a major mining client in collaboration with ALS and Waterline Projects.
THE BENEFITS OF GOING DIGITAL
FOR DESIGN
• Improved design co-ordination and transparency
• Clash detection
• Improved accuracy and drawings
• Early visualization
• Increased confidence and surety of project outcome in terms of cost, program and quality
• Utilise GIS to analyze spatial location and organize layers of information into visualizations using maps and 3D scenes. Access to insights such as data patterns, relationships and situations enables designers to make smarter decisions
FOR OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE (O&M)
• Ability to plan and deliver optimum efficiency in asset operation, maximizing the value of an asset over its entire life
• GIS and digital engineering integration is extremely useful once an asset is built. Rather than oversimplifying the end data provided for management, the digital engineering model - connected to GIS - delivers everything operations need. With digital engineering capabilities, you’re improving operability and eliminating errors. This technology convergence will play an important role in predictive maintenance, too.
FOR CONSTRUCTION
• Improved safety and reduced risk
• Improved cost estimating
• Reduced re-work
• Schedule optimization
• Improved procurement
• Ability to rapidly test different solutions virtually
• Identify, develop and validate Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) opportunities to provide the best possible client solution
• Communicate the impact of construction on the surrounding environment for all project stakeholders, including external interfaces such as planning authorities and neighbouring parties
THE STEPS TO DIGITAL ENGINEERING
Engage a digital engineering partner, such as RedEye, to determine your digital engineering requirements based on your business’ strategy and objectives.
Plan data management for projects including design, construction, commissioning, maintenance and asset management. Develop a Digital Engineering Standard encompassing:
STEP ONE - UNDERSTAND YOUR REQUIREMENTS
To ensure your organisation is always leveraging the latest technology, consider partnerships with leaders in technology that have experience in your industry.
Partnering with you on your digital journey means that organisations like RedEye don’t just hand over a piece of software but work with you to access the latest technology and develop the right solutions as your business needs change and grow.
STEP TWO - DEVELOP A PLAN
• Digital Engineering Plan to be issued to design consultants during the bid phase
• Drafting Standard
• 3D Model Management Standard
• Template folder for engineering solutions (i.e. CAD and engineering documents)
STEP THREE - CONFIGURE A SOLUTION
Enable the integration of 3D models, 2D drawings and other engineering documents in a cloud-based system to ensure a single source of truth from handover through to asset management. Create a digital framework, set workflows and integrate data management systems for visibility and control of assets.… more…Press Release - Date: June 19, 2019 |
Frank Zokoll, Product Manager
OMICRON Energy Solutions GmbH, Berlin
The constant availability of medium- and high-voltage electrical assets used in the generation, transmission and distribution is important for a reliable power supply at both utilities and also industrial plants. Partial discharge (PD) is considered to be one of the major contributors to the degradation and failure of insulation systems in electrical assets.
Because PD activity is often present well in advance o
f insulation failure, asset managers can assess it over time and make informed strategic decisions regarding the timely repair or replacement of the equipment before an unexpected outage occurs. PD detection is therefore essential to ensure the reliable, long-term operation of electrical equipment.
Although users consider PD detection and monitoring as beneficial for trending insulation conditions in electrical assets, the system installation and data analysis were often too complicated and time-consuming for the average user. In addition, users wanted a system that is more flexible for short-term and long-term use on multiple assets, rather than investing in multiple systems. That is why OMICRON decided to develop a portable on-line PD measurement and monitoring system that is easier to install and use on various assets in the field.
One system for various applications
OMICRON’s MONTESTO 200 combines on-line partial discharge (PD) measurement and temporary on-line PD monitoring functions into one portable system. The IP65 rated MONTESTO 200 can be used both indoors and outdoors for insulation condition assessments on various medium-voltage and high-voltage electrical assets under load, including motors and generators, power transformers and power cables. This versatility makes it possible for users to only invest in one system for assessing the insulation condition status of electrical assets throughout a utility or industrial plant.
Plug-and-play connections to various PD sensors
MONTESTO 200 is designed for use with a variety of PD measurement sensors from OMICRON and other suppliers, including coupling capacitors for rotating machines, bushing tap sensors and UHF drain-valve sensors for power transformers, as well as high-frequency current transformers (HFCTs) for power cables.
These PD measurement sensors can be permanently installed and connected to MONTESTO 200 via OMICRON’s Terminal Box, which is also permanently installed at the asset. This enables safe and convenient plug-and-play connections while the asset is on line to avoid unnecessary downtime during setup.
Easy on-site PD measurements
The lightweight and compact MONTESTO 200 comes with all the necessary connection cables in a wheeled case that is easy to transport to various locations for on-line PD measurements on site. The system’s wide measurement frequency range can be freely adjusted to ensure an optimal signal-to-noise ratio. PD measurement data streams can be recorded and replayed later for detailed analysis.
Remote monitoring setup and data access
For temporary PD monitoring, users can easily mount MONTESTO 200 to a surface on or near the asset, connect it to the Terminal Box, and then leave it unattended. PD monitoring sessions can be quickly set up in less than 10 clicks of a mouse. MONTESTO 200 features a built-in computer that enables long-term data collection and archival. Users can access this computer from any remote location to set up monitoring sessions and to view the collected PD data with the system’s convenient web interface. Users can also configure the system to automatically send email alarm notifications when PD levels exceed user-defined thresholds.
User-friendly software
The MONTESTO 200 software simplifies system setup, PD data analysis and reporting. Unique software features, such as 3PARD (3-Phase Amplitude Relation Diagram) and Automatic Cluster Separation, automatically separate noise from PD signals to help users quickly and reliably determine the signal source. Data from third-party sensors can also be easily integrated for correlation with the PD data.
Various application areas
MONTESTO 200 is intended for use by asset manufacturers, maintenance teams at utilities and industrial sites, as well as service providers for convenient on-line PD measurements and temporary PD monitoring. The two-in-one solution can be used, for example, to clarify asset insulation issues during warranty periods; to periodically check insulation condition during an asset’s service life; to identify insulation issues that require immediate attention; to observe assets at risk over extended periods of time; and to plan maintenance and investment based on asset condition.
www.omicronenergy.com/montesto200
OMICRON has several years of experience in the field of PD measurement, monitoring and analysis on medium-voltage and high-voltage assets with customers in the asset manufacturing, power utility and industry sectors all over the world.… more…Conway Corporation Solar RFP Press Release - Date: June 18, 2019 |
Conway Corporation is dedicated to delivering safe, affordable, reliable, innovative, and environmentally sound utility services. As such, Conway is seeking proposals for solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to meet energy and capacity requirements for 2022 and beyond. Respondents are expected to submit the Intent to Respond form, participate in the Pre-Bid Conference, and submit their proposal in accordance with RFP guidelines. As a trusted affiliate of Conway Corporation, The Energy Authorit
y (TEA) has been chosen to facilitate the RFP process. Interested respondents can gain access to the RFP and associated documents by sending an email to ConwayRFP@teainc.org.… more…Energy New England (ENE) launches EV Awareness Programs for 2019 Press Release - Date: June 4, 2019 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, June 3, 2109
Contact: Mark Scribner, Program Manager, Electric Vehicles, Energy New England, 508-698-1228 //
mscriber@ene.org Energy New England (ENE) has launched several new EV awareness programs on behalf of municipal utilities in Massachusetts. ENE and their municipal utility clients are uniquely positioned as the trusted and reliable resource for customers for all things EV related. These public
utility programs include Danvers Electric Department, Hingham Municipal Lighting Plant, Middleborough Gas & Electric Department, Middleton Electric Light Department, Rowley Municipal Lighting Plant, and Taunton Municipal Light Plant. In addition, ENE is actively taking over the management of the Braintree Electric Light Department’s existing EV initiative, Braintree Drives Electric, and providing program support to the Concord Municipal Light Plant’s new EV program initiative, Concord Drive Electric.
The core mission of ENE EV programs is to raise awareness among public utility customers on the many benefits of and incentives for choosing an electric vehicle, and to connect existing EV drivers with local incentives for charging an EV off peak at home and for installing Level 2 charging equipment. EV program services include outreach, marketing, events, dealership engagement, workplace charging and EV driver support. Along with the launch of individual municipal EV awareness websites, ENE has launched its own branded EV awareness website at ev.ene.org. A comprehensive online resource for municipal utility customers to all things EV, ENE’s website provides easy access to all resources that EV interested consumers want. These include uncovering the compelling benefits of EVs, answering common consumer questions, interactive buying and charging guides, connecting to local programs and incentives, and information on upcoming local Events where electric vehicles can be seen and test driven with support and guidance from ENE’s own trained EV Specialists.
“The Electric Vehicle sector has become an area of interest and ENE is pleased to be able to offer an array of programs to our municipal utilities clients to fit the utility and their residents desires to participate in electric vehicle education, and all the way up to management of the entire program, including several events in the utility service community”, said John G. Tzimorangas, President and CEO of ENE. “Mark Scribner, with his vast expertise, provides the utilities with an experienced and enthusiastic champion for the EV programs and works hard to give the utilities a program to be proud of in the growing sector”, commented Tzimorangas.
ENE also co-sponsored an innovative Electric Car Showcase at South Shore Plaza in Braintree that ran through March 31st. In addition to multiple plug-in models on display in center court, brand neutral EV Specialists were on hand at every Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and other select days to provide the latest info on charging incentives, vehicle and charger rebates, and special deals available to residents. Additional EVents are scheduled in ENE client municipalities throughout the Spring, Summer and Fall.
Learn more about electric vehicles and their many benefits at ev.ene.org and sign up to receive the latest information about incentives and upcoming events. Consumers and utilities can get more information by filling out the website’s online form, emailing ev@ene.org or by calling 1-833-4-EV-HELP (1.833.443.8363) toll-free to reach a staff of ENE EV program dedicated EV Specialists.
About Energy New England (ENE): ENE is the largest wholesale risk management and energy trading organization serving the needs of municipal utilities in the northeast. ENE works with numerous businesses, residents and utilities to help promote the principles of conservation, efficiency, and environmental stewardship, and advances the many benefits available through integrated sustainability planning. ene.org
###… more…White Paper - Date: May 29, 2019 |
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), brings together smart machines, data analytics, and the people who need to understand what is happening in all the remote locations. As we see the drive to unify networks and bring the IT/OT organizations closer together, these insights can then help drive smarter, faster decisions.
IIoT will change the way utilities operate from day-to-day, enabling predictive analytics to identify potential equipment failure – before they happen! By combining m
achine-to-machine communication with data analytics, IIoT will drive new levels of efficiency, productivity, and performance.
Find out how Quest Controls advanced monitoring and controls solutions can help bring IIoT benefits to your utility:
Download our white paper – https://tinyurl.com/quest-IIoT-WP
Visit us at Booth 506 at the APPA National Conference in Austin, TX (and enter or drawing for a chance to win your very own drone!)… more…New M18™ FORCE LOGIC™ 10,000 psi Hydraulic Pump Provides the Easiest Way to Power Hydraulics Press Release - Date: April 12, 2019 |
MILWAUKEE, WI – Milwaukee Tool continues to bring productivity to new heights in the utility industry with the introduction of the M18™ FORCE LOGIC™ 10,000 psi Hydraulic Pump – the easiest way to power hydraulics. Designed to be fully compatible with all existing 10,000 psi-rated hydraulic hoses and single-acting heads, this new hydraulic pump is up to 80% smaller and 75 lbs lighter than gas units for one-person carry and easiest set-up. A high-pressure flow rate that’s 3X faster than other cord
less pumps delivers gas-like performance including 24 second cycle times and up to 60 presses on a single battery on 1590 ACSR connectors. The M18™ FORCE LOGIC™* 10,000 psi Hydraulic Pump fundamentally changes the way transmission lines get installed.
“Battery-powered crimping and cutting tools continue to grow in demand as the utility industry strives toward safer, more productive work environments. As the leader in cordless compression technology, Milwaukee® has made it our goal to fundamentally change the way electricity gets installed for every size conductor, in every environment, on one battery. This new hydraulic pump expands our range of capacities, allowing us to offer a complete cutting and crimping solution on the M18™ System,” said Troy Marks, Product Manager for Milwaukee Tool.
The pump is designed with three modes of operation to give users the flexibility to modify the tool’s operation to their specific needs: Auto-Dump, Hold-Pressure, and a Wireless Mode which creates a physical air gap between an operator and a potentially live electrical line when performing a remote cut.
Featuring Predictive Force Monitoring (PFM™), an adaptive pressure control system, the tool constantly measures force output delivering consistent speed that won’t bog down on tougher applications. A green LED indicator light provides users instant pressure verification to ensure they’ve achieved accurate pressure every time – a new-to-industry benefit delivering unequaled accuracy and reliability. The tool also includes ONE-KEY™** compatibility, enabling users to store cycle data in real-time, generate reports, view historical tool performance data, and sync all information wirelessly to the cloud.
For added benefit, a bucket hanger attachment is available to create a stable, level operating position to maximize the available space in buckets and baskets.
From the power plant, through transmission and distribution, it is Milwaukee’s goal to improve reliability and productivity for linemen by offering solutions that help increase confidence on the job. The new M18™ FORCE LOGIC™ 10,000 psi Hydraulic Pump joins a wide range of power tools, cordless crimpers and cutters, high-output lighting, hand tools, storage, and linemen accessories that continue to deliver on this mission.
*FORCE LOGIC™ is engineered to not only improve upon, but fundamentally change the way high-force tools are used in the field. Through thoughtful design focused on workflow, each tool simplifies a complicated process to deliver the best user experience of its kind and the smartest way to work.
**ONE-KEY™ is the first digital platform for tools and equipment. By integrating industry-leading tool electronics with a custom-built cloud based program, ONE-KEY™ provides a new level of control and access to information that revolutionizes the way work gets done. The ability to customize, track, and manage through ONE-KEY™ fundamentally changes the way users interact with their tools
Specifications
M18™ FORCE LOGIC™ 10,000 PSI Hydraulic Pump (2774-21HD)
• Force Output: 10,000 psi (700 bar)
• Flow Rate at Low Pressure: 134in3/min
• Flow Rate at High Pressure: 31.5 in3/min
• Reservoir Capacity: 1.7 qts
• Coupler Types: 3/8” Threaded Female
• Adaptive Pressure Control: PFM™
• ONE KEY™ Enabled: Yes
Kit Includes M18™ FORCE LOGIC™ 10,000 psi Hydraulic Pump, (1) M18™ REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT™ HD12.0 Battery, M18™ & M12™ Rapid Charger, and Inverter.
*Also available as bare tool (2774-20)
**Optional Bucket Hanger Attachment (49-12-2776) and 6ft Controller Cord Extension (49-12-2775) available
… more…Press Release - Date: March 20, 2019 |
NISC Acquires Electrical Distribution Design, Inc.
Acquisition boosts NISC’s Engineering & Operations offerings
Lake Saint Louis, Mo., March 1, 2019 – To better serve its Members, National Information Solutions Cooperative (NISC), a leading provider of software solutions to utility and telecommunication companies, has acquired Electrical Distribution Design, Inc. (EDD).
EDD is a private corporation headquartered in Blacksburg, Va., that provides advanced engineering modeling so
ftware and services to the electric utility and related industries.
NISC has been working with EDD for several years, integrating EDD’s analytics into NISC’s Geographic Information System, Outage Management System and Operational Analytics product offerings. EDD’s commercial software product, DEW, stands apart from others in its ability to deliver near real-time operational analytics for electric utilities.
“EDD is a great fit with NISC in both the quality solutions and diligent service they provide their customers,” said Todd Eisenhauer, NISC vice president of Strategy & Operations Solutions. “Driven by new technologies, regulations, and end-user expectations, the utility industry is changing and evolving at a rapid pace. This acquisition will help ensure NISC’s Members are empowered to keep up with that pace by making more-informed decisions at a rate faster than ever before.”
“We feel NISC is a natural fit for EDD,” said Dr. Robert Broadwater, EDD chief technology officer. “We’re excited to combine our technology and years of experience with NISC’s large active community in order to enhance our products to the benefit of all NISC’s Members.”
With the acquisition, EDD and its 15 employees will become a subsidiary of NISC.
About NISC
National Information Solutions Cooperative (NISC) is an information technology organization that develops, implements and supports software and hardware solutions for our Members. We deliver advanced solutions, services and support to 832 independent telephone companies, electric cooperatives and other public power entities. NISC is an industry leader providing information technology solutions including billing, accounting, operations, automated mailroom services, third-party integration as well as many other solutions. With facilities in Mandan, N.D., Lake Saint Louis, Mo., Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Shawano, Wis., NISC and its subsidiaries employ more than 1,280 professionals between the four locations.
Additional information about NISC can be found at www.nisc.coop.
About EDD
Electrical Distribution Design, Inc. is a private corporation headquartered in Blacksburg, Va. Recognized as a leader in electrical distribution system modeling and analysis, EDD’s commercial software product DEW stands apart from others in its ability to deliver near real-time operational analytics for electric utilities. EDD provides advanced engineering modealing software and services to the electric utility and related industries.
Additional information about EDD can be found at www.edd-us.com.
For more information, please contact:
Mary Miller | Communications Manager
866.999.6472 | mary.miller@nisc.coop
Dr. Robert Broadwater | Chief Technology Officer, EDD
760.604.1800 | dew@edd-us.com
… more…NOVEC and D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) Partner on 300-MW of Solar Facilities in PJM Press Release - Date: February 21, 2019 |
NOVEC to Purchase Renewable Energy from 300-MW of Solar Facilities within the PJM Territory through an Agreement with D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI)
The D. E. Shaw Group:
DESRI commercial inquiries — Hy Martin,
hy.martin@deshaw.comPress inquiries — Amanda Ely,
amanda.ely@deshaw.comContact: NOVEC Public Relations, 1-888-335-0500,
communications@novec.comMANASSAS, VA. — Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative (NOVEC) and D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) recently reached an agreement for NOVEC to purchase approximately 300 megawatts (MW) of electrical energy output from solar facilities owned by DESRI. NOVEC selected DESRI from among multiple bidders to provide the cooperative with additional renewable resources.
“This agreement with DESRI is another step toward meeting our customers’ expectations for more renewable energy in NOVEC’s resource mix. Purchasing the output from these new solar facilities will be a valuable addition to our energy supply,” says NOVEC President and CEO Stan Feuerberg.
The agreement between NOVEC and DESRI formalizes the partnership to develop and construct solar-electric generation facilities within the Dominion/PJM footprint. PJM is a regional transmission organization that serves 13 states, including Virginia, and the District of Columbia.
“This addition of solar generated electricity will become NOVEC’s largest source of renewable energy. Additionally, its projected cost is competitive with the marketplace for comparable on-peak energy,” says Gil Jaramillo, Manager, portfolio optimization and business development.
DESRI owns and operates solar facilities across the United States and has additional facilities in development and under consideration. The planned facilities that would sell energy to NOVEC are expected to consist of ground-mounted solar panels that track the sun’s movement throughout the daylight hours to produce an estimated 300 peak MW of electricity. These in-development solar facilities are expected to achieve commercial operation by 2023.
“The solar plants are a welcome addition to NOVEC’s current 60 MW of renewable resources that include hydroelectric, woody biomass, solar, and landfill methane gas recovery,” says John Rainey, Director, origination and plant operations.
“The DESRI team is thrilled to partner with NOVEC to bring low-cost solar power to Virginia residents,” says David Zwillinger, DESRI President. “We are committed to growing the renewable energy economy in the region.”
The solar facilities involved in the agreement are expected to produce enough electricity to power nearly 73,000 homes, or the equivalent of taking nearly 37,000 passenger vehicles off the road. They are also expected to create 250 jobs during construction with an emphasis on hiring from local communities.
“NOVEC’s strategy is to continue improving our environmental footprint through the addition of new renewable energy sources that are not only clean, but also affordable. The partnership with DESRI does just that,” says Feuerberg.
Press release --
https://www.novec.com/About_NOVEC/News_Release/nr021919.cfmAbout NOVEC
NOVEC, headquartered in Manassas, Virginia, is a not-for-profit corporation that provides electricity to more than 170,000 metered customers in Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun, Prince William, Stafford, and Clarke counties, the City of Manassas Park, and the Town of Clifton. It also supplies natural gas and energy products and services to consumers in the Washington, D.C., region. The utility serves more customers than any other Virginia electric co-op and is the 11th largest electric cooperative in the U.S. as measured by retail customers. For more information, visit
www.novec.com.
About D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments:
D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments, L.L.C. (DESRI) and its affiliates acquire, own, and manage long-term contracted renewable energy assets in North America. DESRI's portfolio of renewable energy projects currently includes 31 wind and solar projects that represent more than 1,600 MW of aggregate capacity. DESRI is a member of the D. E. Shaw group, a global investment and technology development firm with more than $50 billion in investment and committed capital as of December 1, 2018, and offices in North America, Europe, and Asia. Please visit
www.deshaw.com for more information about the D. E. Shaw group.
… more…Press Release - Date: December 17, 2018 |
Bellwether Management Solutions has been selected by Weakley County Municipal System, in Martin, TN, to provide AMI Meter Installation and Project Management services as part of Weakley County's Smart Grid Project. The deployment of 21,000 meters will begin in December of 2018 and is anticipated to be complete in December of 2019.
Metering Equipment and Services Supplier Article - Date: December 17, 2018 |  |
“Learned this morning that Mark with Bellwether finished installing all of the electric meters, as contracted. I would like to commend the Bellwether Staff and Harry. They coordinated and worked so well together, it can only be described as “poetry in motion”, it was Team Work in every sense of the word. I always received the changeout information in a timely matter and the information was accurate. I only requested a few photos because of customers insistence that the old meter read was wr
ong and each time I was able to show them a picture of the meter with the same ending read as the read on their bill. Bellwether is a very professional outfit and it was an absolute delight and honor to have them assist us in this very important project.”
Tammie Simmons
Consumer Billing Supervisor
City of Laurinburg, NC… more…Press Release - Date: November 28, 2018 |
Central Service Association and Professional Computer Systems Announce Collaboration
TUPELO, MS and DENISON, IA – November 30, 2018 – Central Service Association (CSA), a member-owned technology cooperative based in Tupelo, Miss., has reached an agreement to purchase the assets of Professional Computer Systems, Co. (PCS), based in Denison, Iowa. This agreement will expand both the product offerings and service area for each company.
The two companies serve a combined 160+ utilities
in 29 states, plus the island of Bermuda, with very little territory overlap. While both companies primarily provide billing, financial and related software to public utilities, specific products and technologies from each may now be made available to the other’s customers to help fill specific needs. Each company will continue to operate from their respective headquarters and each will maintain current or increased staffing and service levels as they build for the future.
The collaboration will allow PCS to offer an “enterprise solution” to its customers as it initially adds CSA’s Orbit(tm) Meter Data Management and UtiliSuite(tm), a complete multi-service GIS/Engineering package, to its product set. The companies already have some key integration in place, and their dedication to Microsoft platforms and MultiSpeak(tm) standards points toward a smooth transition. Additionally, PCS clients will also be able to take part in CSA sponsored employee benefit plans. These benefits include defined contribution (401k & 457) and defined benefit (traditional pension) retirement plans, life insurance, retiree health, dental and pharmacy plans from nationally known companies like Voya and Mass Mutual.
Kim Ingerslev, President and CEO of PCS, states, “The CSA and PCS union is a natural for the two companies. Both companies have a long history of serving the utility industry by providing leading-edge software and solution development, and exceptional customer support. Clients and the industry will benefit from the combined investment into people and products.”
“We are excited to add PCS’s assets - human, physical and intellectual - to the CSA family,” Tom Underwood, CEO and General Manager at Central Service Association said. “This opens markets and technologies for both companies and will provide some economies of scale that will make each company stronger and better able to serve its customers.”
Upon closing on January 1, 2019 Professional Computer Systems will become Professional Computer Solutions, LLC and will be a wholly owned subsidiary of Central Service Association.
The existing management, technical and support personnel at PCS will remain in place after the purchase.
Underwood explained, “We want this transition to be as smooth as possible. PCS is already a successful company with loyal customers, and we want to assure them that we are not going to do anything to risk changing that. We are, where appropriate and fundamentally sound, planning to share products, technology, human intelligence and other resources to ensure that both companies are serving their respective utilities in the best possible way, but there are no significant personnel or technology platform changes planned or expected in the foreseeable future.”
###
About Central Service Association (CSA)
On January 3, 1938, Central Service Association was incorporated as a member-owned association to create a method of using centralized expertise to perform utility customer billing and other joint services that were determined as useful to the efficient operation of public utilities. Today, CSA is still operated without profit and for the benefit of its members.
In its 80-plus year history, CSA has grown to serve the entire seven-state Tennessee Valley area and has recently begun marketing efforts outside its previous boundaries. What began as a manual billing service has grown into an association offering a very comprehensive range of modern, computerized information systems to assist in all areas of utility operations and management to more than 100 utilities.
Today, CSA’s Orbit(tm) customer, financial and work management systems represent the latest technology and the greatest value in the IT arena. In addition, the Association offers UtiliSuite(tm) GIS/mapping software, meter data management, professional and consulting services, networking, Internet services, hardware and software sales, related supplies and printed forms, employee benefit plans, and other assistance incident to the provision of support to public utilities. For more information about CSA visit www.csa1.com.
Media Contact:
Roger Smith
, Chief Business Development Officer, rsmith@csa1.com
About Professional Computer Systems, Co. (PCS)
PCS has been serving the utility industry with billing and accounting software solutions since 1981. PCS offers Utilit-e Solutions, an integrated suite of premier software applications for the utility industry. The suite includes: Utilit-e Connect, a customer information system and utility billing application; Utilit-e Insight, a comprehensive financial accounting solution; Utilit-e Online, an e-Commerce solution; and Utilit-e Central, an application software hosting service. PCS provides many Smart Grid interfaces to open third party applications such as AMI, MDM, GIS, OMS, IVR allowing choices of solutions. PCS’ customer support personnel know and understand the utility environment and how that encompasses your support needs. For more information about PCS, visit www.pcsco.com.
Media Contact:
Kim Ingerslev
, President and CEO, kimi@pcsco.com
… more…The Arbor Day Foundation’s Energy-Saving Trees and Community Canopy Programs Launches Fall Planting Season Press Release - Date: October 18, 2018 |
Lincoln, Nebr. (October 18, 2018) – The Arbor Day Foundation announced today the beginning of its fall tree planting initiatives through its Energy-Saving Trees and Community Canopy programs. Through these two community-based consumer education programs more than 27,000 trees will be distributed by 29partners including utility companies, cities, states, nonprofits and corporate partners across the United States bringing the total number of trees placed in homeowner’s, customers, communities and
employee’s hands free of charge over the last three years to more than 285,000.
Energy-Saving Trees is a research-based, easy-to-use online mapping tool that takes the guesswork out of tree planting. Local utility companies partner with the Arbor Day Foundation to provide trees to their local customers, helping to promote energy savings. By entering simple information about your home and yard, the tool calculates where to specifically and strategically plant trees for the greatest energy- and money-saving benefits. Planting the right tree in the right place is key to maximizing the energy-saving benefits that trees provide. When planted properly, a single tree can save a homeowner up to 20% on energy costs. Additionally, trees much more than provide energy savings to the homeowner. They also provide tangible benefits for the entire community: improved air quality, reduced storm water runoff, beautification of your neighborhood, reduced urban heat island effect, and a smaller carbon footprint, just to name a few.
“At Duke Energy we love trees and know our customers do too, said Nick Esposito, Duke Energy Florida
Sr Vegetation Management Specialist. “Our partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation has provided a great way to give back to our customers while informing them of the benefits of trees, where to plant them to maximize those benefits, and how to prevent conflicts with overhead power lines.”
Similar to the Energy Saving-Trees program, the Community Canopy program is designed to offer companies, cities, states, and nonprofit organizations a turnkey approach to providing trees to customers, employees or other members of their community. Community Canopy provides both the mechanism and the strategy for offering a sustainable program to community residents that has the ability to impact energy conservation, water management, air quality, and carbon sequestration. Like the Energy-Savings Tree program, the Community Canopy program provides homeowners with trees and education, ensuring they plant the right tree in the right place. Trees are reserved through an online mapping tool that takes the guesswork out of where to plant the tree on a specific property that will help maximize the air, water, energy, and carbon benefits of their tree.
"We were looking for a creative and user-friendly way to engage our residents about urban forestry, said Ian Jurgensen, Sustainability Project Manager, Office of Sustainability and Energy, City of Orlando. “The Community Canopy program is the perfect fit for combining functionality, education and technology to help get trees planted in the City of Orlando."
New partners this season include: Boulder County, Colorado, California Urban Forest Council, City of Bremerton, Washington, Cleveland Tree Coalition, Ohio, City of Fountain, Colorado, City of Highland, Indiana, Entergy (Tx, MS, AK and LA) as well as the State of Delaware (Dover). Returning partners for the fall season include: Avista Utility, BGE, Centerpoint Energy, City of Orlando, City of Sarasota, FL, City of Spokane, WA, Cleveland Clinic, Edmond Electric, Liberty Utilities, Howard Hughes Corporation, Idaho Power, Utilities Commission of New Smyrna Beach, FL, OG&E, Oncor, Puget Sound Energy, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, SMUD, State of Rhode Island, Taking Root, and Tullahoma Utilities Authority.
Trees from these two programs are projected to save $2.6 million in energy and provide $6.2 million in total environmental benefits. The online tool for both programs was made possible through a grant from the UPS Foundation. It was developed by the Davey Tree Expert Company and the Arbor Day Foundation, and powered by i-Tree research. To learn more about getting your community involved in Energy-Saving Trees or Community Canopy please visit arborday.org.
… more…Press Release - Date: September 27, 2018 |
The updated AreaMax product line leads in lumens, while maintaining its recognizable, lightweight housing, proven surge protection and distinctive diffuse light.
September 27, 2018… Renton, WA. The evolution continues as LED lighting manufacturer Evluma announces an updated release of its AreaMax LED street and area light product family. Utilizing premium performance LEDs from leading vendors, the updated AreaMax leaps ahead of competitors in efficacy, achieving up to 160 lm/W, and over a
40% increase in light output over previous models. Adding to the 40W, 55W and 70W options, Evluma breaks out with an 80W and 100W option on the high end as a true 250W HID replacement and a 30W option on the low end. All wattages are offered in Type III or Type V light distributions and in a wide range of correlated color temperatures (CCT): 2700K to 5000K.
While the updated product line offers efficacy improvements and a more uniform light distribution, the AreaMax retains its distinctive soft, diffuse light. Evluma’s proven 20kV/10kA surge protection is still offered standard with every luminaire and the company has chosen to maintain the classic lightweight housing. Photocontrol Failsafe, the maintenance saving technology that eliminates the need to replace failed photocontrols, is built-in to every model. The AreaMax is backed by a 10-year warranty; the same comprehensive warranty Evluma has offered since 2014.
“With the significant increase in lumen output, current customers can maintain their existing lighting program, but can choose to transition to lower wattages,” says Evluma VP of Sales and Marketing David Tanonis. Evluma recommends that current 40W customers purchase the 30W product, and current 70W customers purchase the new 55W model for comparative light output but for less watts. Evluma continues to offer a Dark-Sky Friendly model for those concerned with light pollution and trespass. The light shield accessory has also been updated.
See the 2018 AreaMax in Booth #407 at IES Street and Area Lighting Conference September 30 – October 3, 2018 in Orlando Florida. The 2018 AreaMax is available for order immediately with an estimated 8-week lead time. Lead time may vary depending on the model ordered.
The updated, 2018 AreaMax line will function with Evluma’s ConnectLED app, however, current license holders may need to update their copy of the app.
About Evluma
Evluma is committed to developing environmentally low impact LED lighting solutions that are affordable and long lasting. Evluma’s high standard of customer service enables a constant feedback stream to their Renton, Washington facility to create products that meet the needs of the utilities and contractors they work with every day. The Evluma AreaMax LED luminaire is the utility standard in area and security lighting. Evluma celebrated a 10-year anniversary May 2018.
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