Utilities are going through innovation as the industry witnesses changing technologies. Although innovation sounds daunting, it also brings better ways of doing things. Managers can access the latest features and applications such as modern grids, automation solutions, and advanced power distribution strategies. An outage management system is another innovation that no utility company should skip. On the surface, it is a solution that helps them to address and resolve outages. But the benefits of embracing an OMS run much deeper. If you still have second thoughts about adopting an OMS, here are the benefits it delivers for curbing outage risks.
Brings greater efficiency
Extended outages can damage your business as they affect the efficiency and reputation of utility companies in the long run. Outage management techniques can protect you on all fronts, from boosting performance to increasing efficiency. It also enhances the energy production capacity of distribution networks for an increase in output. Overall, these factors work together to elevate the reputation of the company. There couldn’t be a better investment to make for your utility company.
Ensures hassle-free outage restoration
Outages are a concern for utilities, but restoration is an even bigger challenge. The best way to restore them is by having real-time awareness of the problem areas. Unless you can detect the triggers, resolving the problem is not possible. OMS shows the way by guiding your engineers to the area where fault exists. They can send over the crew to the exact location to correct the issue. Crew members need not struggle to check each unit individually anymore. They can save time, effort, and fuel as they need not travel long-distance just to pick the trigger point.
Controls overtime hours
Overtime hours make an integral element of utility operations. They are bearable until they do not become a part of the daily work routine. Consider the extra time as the cost of a power outage your company must bear if outages happen frequently. You have to adjust the overtime pay for crew members as they work long hours to resolve the outage. An OMS can be the best solution. It can forecast problems and minimize the manual efforts of the team. Less manual work translates into fewer overtime payouts.
Refines communication standards
Utility customers do not have the patience to wait for updates on outage resumption. They also expect accurate information because power outages spell loss and discomfort for them. If they encounter them often, they will rather switch to another provider. An outage management system covers your utility company with refined communication standards as well. It relies on data analytics methods to provide reliable and accurate facts to consumers, and you can do it on time. They can even see the spots where current outages occur and get estimated times of restoration through self-service tools.
An outage management system is a powerful tool that can set your utility business apart and boost its reputation as a provider. There are good reasons to invest in it sooner rather than later.
