Utilities can better achieve real-time data analysis and program the devices or infrastructure to have set policies so that they conduct specific actions based on the data output. This is called edge computing, which can allow for different types of automatic processes across the system. To reduce overall network costs and to speed data processing, intelligence should be embedded at the point where it’s collected. Moving this data to the enterprise or cloud can be a heavy and costly lift, and it can also delay the processing and alerting of essential data for triggering a timely response to a potential hazard. The integration of new IoT devices across the infrastructure landscape will create a massive amount of new data to collect and process. It’s practical to take steps to build cybersecurity through asset discovery, network segmentation, threat detection and mitigation, and integrated IT/Operational Tech (OT) security operations center. A compliance-oriented and systematic approach will allow you to have a clear understanding of your current capabilities, and a good idea of which gaps need to be filled and what action must be taken. All utilities are not built the same, so add IoT devices that have the greatest impact for your network and customers, whether that be operational efficiency, public safety, public awareness, or some other issue of vital importance to your specific goals.Īnother important step that should be considered when integrating a new network is meeting standards and compliance codes. Utilities should take operational efficiency into consideration when adding new devices, as the amount of data collected will increase exponentially.
Real-time threat detection and alerts can be built into the network so that your IT team is notified of vulnerabilities or threats, and can address them immediately.
Isolate the network into different zones to help reduce the risk of an attack spreading across the entire network. One forgotten device can leave the entire network vulnerable, so both legacy and new devices should be identified as in-place, or needed. Safeguard a secure start by identifying and mapping out all your assets to determine the proper security strategy for your network. It is essential to ensure that your network and devices are secure so that no one can wreak havoc on the system.
#Smart utility management update#
When handled correctly, the infrastructure update can unlock new insights and reach unprecedented levels of efficiency.
#Smart utility management how to#
When upgrading, utilities need to think about how to scale to thousands - or even millions - of sensors, water meters and valves. This outdated and inefficient process can lead to old, inaccurate and incomplete measurements of data and assets. Given the strong digital presence in our everyday life, it might be hard to believe that many utilities still track devices and data manually. Scalability and manageability of the system should also be kept in mind. Processing data in an efficient manner will also be crucial, and it starts with installing monitoring systems for water usage (Advanced Metering Infrastructure), leak detection, and water quality to gain real-time data and ensure better situational awareness. A foreign attack on a community’s system can cause irreparable damage. At the forefront, security should be a priority. When evaluating how to start updating infrastructure with this technology, utilities should keep in mind a wide range of possibilities for IoT in water management. These smart devices and sensors can help with real-time data collection and alerts to prevent issues from occurring and reduce the workload on the workers responsible for physically checking every inch of infrastructure. Water systems are becoming more challenging to manage as assets are spread across a physical footprints spanning miles.Īs infrastructure is updated, utilities can implement Internet of Things (IoT) technology throughout to help make water management more efficient and safer for consumers and workers. Additionally, contaminants from old pipes or pollution can suddenly and unknowingly enter the water system, putting consumers at risk. In the United States, nearly 6 billion gallons of treated water is lost each day due to leaking pipes.
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