Smart Power Grid

The increasing convergence of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) networks is a growing concern, not only in the energy sector but also for operators of electricity grids in Germany. Over 20 years ago, the process and office communication networks were strictly separate, with the core business of the industry in process communication or "utility communication." However, there is now a clear overlap between the two network segments, with some connection points for monitoring, maintenance, and remote access purposes.

Looking ahead, it is highly likely that the process and office communication networks will fully converge and integrate. To achieve this, it is crucial to leverage the existing expertise from IT to standardize, streamline, and digitize OT processes. However, this convergence also means that the focus of electricity network operators will shift from being the operator of a pure process data network to managing a conglomerate of OT and IT. Importantly, network technologies that are currently used in IT and office communication will form a fundamental pillar of utility communication in the future.

Thus, electricity network operators must retain, consolidate, and expand their expert knowledge to ensure the safe and long-term operation of the future joint production and IT network. It is therefore essential to address these upcoming requirements in detail today.

The energy sector is currently facing a number of challenges, such as the increasing volatility of energy production from renewable sources, raw material shortages caused by the Corona crisis, and the digital transformation of electricity grids into smart grids. To address these challenges successfully, significant organizational, operational, and technical changes must be made in the coming years. Such changes require clear goals, efficient processes, and continuous monitoring. With our expertise in management and the energy industry, we assist our clients in all management issues for a successful transformation.

Especially during times of significant change and changing market requirements, it is essential to understand one's own strengths. We work together with network operators to realign the operational organization in a sustainable and strategic way. The evaluation of the future viability and sustainability of core business competencies and technologies provides information about the most important fields of action for innovation and transformation. Based on the strategic fields of action and goals, we help identify the relevant project portfolio with our clients and facilitate targeted decision-making.

Due to increasingly ambitious energy goals and the restructuring of the energy sector, transformation projects must be carried out quickly and are also under growing public scrutiny. Moreover, electricity grid operators bear responsibility for critical infrastructures and regulatory framework conditions. The successful and efficient implementation of transformation projects and the introduction of new technologies present particular challenges for grid operators. With our many years of experience in project management and the energy sector, we provide support for large-scale project management by establishing and managing an appropriate project organization, reporting to boards, moderating decision-making bodies, and providing methodological expertise.