AMI Analytics - Future

For many utilities across the world, advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) is the first of many initiatives on the path to modernizing the electric grid. According to the differences researches  on AMI Analytics Vendors, Markets and Opportunities, the primary benefit realized by utilities to date has been reduced operating expenses through the automation of meter reading and billing processes, despite the fact that smart meters are capable of monitoring and recording multiple parameters. This data can provide insights into both the status of the distribution grid, as well as the customers that utilities serve. In terms of insolation, however, smart meter data rarely provides measurable benefits. It is only through the implementation of software solutions that provide additional context that the true value of AMI can be realized.

The software analytics market for AMI is one of the most promising opportunities for catalyzing the near-term convergence of IT with operational technology. Nevertheless, the market is still in a period of early adoption, even in geographies where hardware is relatively mature. Accelerating the rate of adoption will be depend upon solving both technological challenges such as systems integration as well as cultural challenges related to change management. Furthermore, both vendors and utilities expressed a common belief that unlocking the true value of AMI data will be dependent upon the adoption of a common utility data model, which ultimately represents a final steady state for more effective data utilization. Until then, most of the benefits resulting from AMI will come from the growing capabilities of meter data management systems.