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Program-At-A-GlanceMonday, June 1
8:00 a.m. 4:30 – 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 2 10:15 – 10:30 a.m. Charles Bagley, Manager- Networking, PacifiCorp Presentation Utilities continue to invest in upgrading their IT infrastructure, while at the same time leveraging existing telecommunications assets. Join us for this case study that outlines PacifiCorp's progress in converting 170 sites to IP Telephony that builds voice on top of its existing data network. The presentation will outline the project approach, technology architecture, problems encountered, and lessons learned. A particular focus will be on utility–specific needs, and touch on Pacificorp's current and planned integrations with radio and metering systems. Next Generation IP Communications to Substations – Case Study Kathleen Nelson, Telecommunications Engineer, Great River Energy Presentation Great River Energy (GRE) has deployed a broadband, high speed, licensed IP communication system to approximately 600 electrical substations and switches covering about 44,000 square miles of its rural service area. In addition to allowing high–speed SCADA applications to the substations, this has provided remote network access to field crews throughout GRE's service area. In this session, you will hear how the utility designed and implemented this network, as well as the future applications planned, from those directly involved in the project. UTC Regulatory/Legislative Update – Spectrum and Infrastructure Jill Lyon, Vice President & General Counsel, Utilities Telecom Council Presentation Will smart grids lead to dedicated spectrum? How will new telecom services change the pole attachment landscape? As always, there are many regulatory issues and proceedings that will have an impact on utility networks. Issues continue to affect your legacy systems, while new proceedings have possibilities for wireless broadband, telemetry and new technologies. Given the new direction in Washington, UTC is focusing on the energy side of regulation more than ever before as a way to get members’ needs understood – particularly in regard to smart grid implementation. From land mobile to microwave, towers to cybersecurity, this session from UTC's Legal/Regulatory Department will go over the broad landscape of UTC's policy work -- including our continued search for critical spectrum – and help you navigate other events during UTC TELECOM 2009. Smart Grid Maturity Model Ray N. Jones, IUN and E&U Programs Executive, IBM Corporation Presentation Anatomy of a Backup Control Center Jeff Selman, Manager, Telecom & Protection Engineering, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association Presentation Utilities are very good at belt–and–suspenders thinking, for good reason. This session will demonstrate why electric utilities need to implement backup control centers to meet NERC requirements, at the same time achieving redundancy and diversity of SCADA and telecommunications systems. NERC Standard EOP–008–0 “Plans for Loss of Control Center Functionality” requires all electric utilities serving as transmission operators, balancing authorities, or reliability coordinators to have a backup dispatch/control center that is redundant and completely independent of their primary control centers. This presentation is based on a case study of how one electric utility and its vendor/system integrator partner worked together to build a backup control center, using a redundant SCADA system and various redundant telecommunications technologies. Preparing Your Utility's Response to a Pandemic Scott Mix, Manager - Situation Awareness & Infrastructure Security, North American Electric Reliability Corporation/NERC Presentation With the recent outbreak of H1N1 (more commonly known as swine flu) and the legitimate scare as well as media hype surrounding the possible pandemic, many utilities were prompted to review their own pandemic response plans to make sure they remain applicable. As the world grows even more interdependent, the very real threat of a pandemic remains. This presentation will discuss the current viral outbreak in the context of a full pandemic and the implications for the utility sector. The presenter will review NERC’s Electricity Sector Influenza Pandemic Planning, Preparation and Response Reference Guide published in 2006 and attendees will have a chance to discuss their own utilities plans in light of a pandemic. 11:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Prudence Parks, Federal Legislative Representative, Utilities Telecom Council It’s a whole new Washington now and different things are becoming a priority! UTC’s Public Policy Division and staff are working with Congress, the Department of Energy, The Department of Homeland Security, NTIA, the Gridwise Alliance and others and you should hear what policymakers are doing that could have a profound effect on your utility and its systems. Finish your educational day with some inside information from our Washington guests in this important session. VoIP – A Case Study Barry Wood, Manager- Voice Systems, Duke Energy Presentation Utilities are putting more and more focus on the use of IP–based technologies– including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephony. Is this a good idea? Are you addressing all the security and reliability concerns? This session presents a case study on how one utility chose and implemented a VoIP solution. Come hear the current status of the project, what was learned along the way and next phases of the project. Establishing a Wireless Backhaul Network for Next–Generation Mobile Applications Patrick Ostiguy, President & CEO, Accedian Networks Presentation Utilities deploying next–generation wireless applications such as AMI, multi–carrier radio communication and data access face a variety of wireless technology choices, including WiMax, Radio–IP and mesh networking. In all cases, a high–performance backhaul network is required that often calls for a mix of legacy TDM (T1/T3&ATM) and low–latency Ethernet connectivity. This presentation provides an overview of applicable network technologies, including pseudowire circuit emulation and Carrier Ethernet, as well as key management and Quality of Service considerations. Case studies illustrate the strategies available for common utility network architectures. Utility Remote Metering Today Mike Burns, Smart Grid Applications / AMI Business Development, Itron Presentation The evolution of remote metering is here. There are targeted objectives in metering and its host of technologies and services, including cost savings, energy and demand reduction, labor reduction, better monitoring and tracking, greater accuracy, greater security, better consumption and data reports, and more intelligent performance analysis. Find out how the benefits can directly apply to your utility. SCADA Security: NERC CIP Standards and Beyond Jonathan Pollet, Founder & Principal Consultant, Red Tiger Security Presentation Media reports say that utility SCADA systems are under cyber attack now more than ever – and that’s just what is released to the public. NERC Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards were created to meet this threat and to provide a framework of sound cyber and physical security measures for control system engineers to integrate into current and future systems. But the CIP standards aren’t the end of this process. What will the next round of standards involve? Are there duplications or parallels to other standards within the CIP standards? How do you protect your utility’s systems against dynamic and evolving threats with static standards? This presentation will provide answers to these questions and provide a sound basis for network security management. Developing Smart Grid Standards Chris Knudsen, Director of Technology Innovation Center, Pacific Gas & Electric; and Chair, Open Smart Grid Group of the UCA International Users Group Presentation If everyone develops systems differently, the smart grid won’t be very smart. Open standards are needed to enable communications from the generating plant to appliances in the home, and across utilities. Regulators in many countries have established requirements to install smart meters as an early step to enable Smart Grid functionality. However, regulators, researchers and utilities have significant cyber security concerns. Meanwhile, standards for reliable, mission–critical Ethernet networks may enable utility automation requiring higher bandwidth, new levels of service aggregation and port density while maintaining support to legacy services and interfaces. This session reviews the many standards being worked in conjunction with the smart grid concept. Going Beyond the “Smart Meter” – The Real Power of Information Mike Smalley, COO & Vice President of Business Development, Carina Technology, Inc. Presentation In a rapidly changing environment, the requirement to satisfy the growing need for more accurate real–time information is coupled with the need to identify and prepare to meet current and future energy demands. While each industry excels in specific areas, the utility industry must identify and adopt many of the same “best practices” information management guidelines that have become standard in the commercial telecom world. This presentation will explore the challenges, options, and lessons learned in implementing and effectively utilizing integrated meter data management solutions and to produce measurable results. 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 3 Greg Angst, Consulting Engineer, CenterPoint Energy Utilities are looking beyond the meter towards Home Area Networks (HAN), as part of a larger smart grid strategy to communicate with individual devices and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Standards are being developed to promote interoperability and to encourage competition and product development in this emerging new market. This session will examine the issues and the opportunities for HAN standards, as well as the stakeholders that are leading the standards effort. POWER HOUR SESSION: Remote Management & Control Systems SYMPOSIA: Control and Security; Managing the Data Deluge Gary Johnson, Vice President Business Development, Bayly Coastom Presentation From isolated networks accessible only by a manned truck roll to completely managed networks that allow remote control from your cell phone – how do you get the right information to the right person at the right time without compromising your network? This session will touch on all the major issues involved, including: centralized vs. distributed monitoring, alarms, as well as control issues. POWER HOUR SESSION: Clearing the Way: What AWS Spectrum Relocation Means for You John Brogan, Operations Manager, AWS Clearinghouse Presentation In April 2006, the Federal Communications Commission established procedures for spectrum clearing in the Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) spectrum band. Ever since, incumbents in the Broadband Radio Service (BRS) and Fixed Service (FS) in the 2.1 GHz band have been relocating at the cost of one or more new licensees. It is estimated that more than 5700 microwave links and BRS systems in the 2.1 GHz spectrum could be affected by the AWS deployment. This session includes practical information on how the FCC’s Rules will affect incumbents and assists them in understanding the cost sharing rules. Participants will discuss the FCC’s Part 27 reimbursement rules as they relate to incumbent licensees in the 2110–2150 MHz range, along with incumbent negotiation periods, contract execution and strategies to help ensure rapid settlements. And, there are rules permitting incumbents to voluntarily relocate their systems, with proper documentation required. POWER HOUR SESSION: Using Satellite Communication Effectively Jerry Armes, Business Development, Micronet Presentation Satellite communications systems provide a means to access critical remote data. This session is a frank discussion on the satellite solutions available to utilities, including the positives and negatives associated with these solutions. This session will include a panel discussion by utility representatives who use satellite solutions currently. Come and find out if satellite service can help you address your remote monitoring and control needs. POWER HOUR SESSION: Best Practices in Wireless Mobility Management Steven Rottinghaus, Chief Marketing Officer, Avalon Solutions Group Presentation Wireless is quickly becoming a larger percentage of the telecom budget, but is exceptionally difficult to manage; taking control is both important and challenging. Sixty percent of Finance and IT executives surveyed in 2008 named Wireless Mobility Management (WMM) as the top technology issue impacting their enterprises. Of these executives, 58% named cost reduction as their top objective for WMM programs. See what strategic initiatives “best–in–class” companies are taking to address key mobility issues such as managing inventory, improving oversight and mobility support, alignment of overall interest as well as governance, risk management and compliance issues. Learn why these companies enjoy 42% lower costs per user than average companies. POWER HOUR SESSION: Leveraging your Transmission Line Build-Out to Create a Telecom Network Paul Miller, Associate Vice President, Black & Veatch Presentation As utilities expand their transmission facilities, they open up opportunities to expand telecommunications infrastructure simultaneously. This session will discuss telecom programs to implement while building out your transmission line system. In addition to hearing from a leading vendor, this session will feature case studies from utilities to show off best practices. 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. 9:00 – 9:15 a.m. Matt Zafuto, WW Solutions Offering Executive, IBM Global Energy & Utilities Industry, IBM Corporation Presentation Telecom and IT are the two components of an integrated ICT sector, but ICT convergence goes beyond technology. The utility industry needs to look at new ways to improve its business processes. From an IT perspective, business applications are more collaborative and communication driven. The focus of defining the future of telecom and networking has shifted towards Internet Protocol (IP), mobile communications and high–speed broadband networks. This session will focus upon the challenges and opportunities in the utility industry to deliver a homogeneous environment for time–sensitive and traditional IT applications, the critical role of addressing ICT convergence and the set of skills required for continued success. Improving Security for the Energy Sector: Two Perspectives Tyler Williams, CEO, Wurldtech Securities Technology, Inc. Presentation Control operations are increasingly exposed to emerging threats – and this is especially unacceptable in the energy sector. Both government and industry groups are developing benchmarks or standards to qualify products and help operators make informed decisions: this session will offer experts on two approaches. The Roadmap to Secure Control Systems in the Energy Sector is a detailed strategy for protecting control systems used in the electric, oil, and natural gas sectors. Developed by energy sector owners and operators in collaboration with DOE, DHS, and Natural Resources Canada, the Roadmap is designed to improve the security of legacy systems and develop new control system architectures. It’s being refreshed in 2009 to reflect changes in technologies, operations, standards, regulations, and threat environments, as well as the advent of smart grid systems. In 2007, the Achilles Cyber Security Program was created to help the automation industry validate and communicate product reliability. Today, this program boasts certified devices from leading industrial equipment vendors, changing the landscape of the industrial automation industry and providing an unprecedented level of assurance about product quality and network resiliency. Hear about these two approaches to your utility's security. State PUCs – the Real Smart Grid Battleground Paul G. Afonso, Co-Leader, Boston Government Law & Strategies Group, Brown Rudnick Presentation State public utility commissions have the real power when it comes to how your utility develops its smart grid initiatives and how much you can recoup from rate base increases. This session will discuss the different initiatives in play in different states and how emerging regulatory trends will shape the overall rollout of the Smart Grid nationwide. This session will also touch on possible national mandates from the new administration and how these will likely play out in different states. This debate has a huge impact on your utility so you won’t want to miss this session. Creating Information Out of the Data Deluge Joanne Kelley, Industry Principal, Utilities, Utilities SAP America, Inc. Presentation The growth and maturity of the data warehouse industry has provided numerous methods to approach the problem of creating information out of a proliferation of data. There are products that will seamlessly connect stored data to create information out of numerous, disparate systems. But how do you implement these products? Where do you have to be in terms of your current data in order to get to the point where it makes sense? And how do you maintain it moving forward? This session will analyze these issues and present viable utility solutions. Convergence & Integration of Utility Legacy Devices Using IP Emmanuel Duvelson, Product Marketing Manager, RFL Electronics Inc. Presentation IP Technology offers the greatest opportunity for voice and data convergence, a critical need for the utility of the near future. The challenge: how do you integrate utility legacy devices into a modern, IP– based communications infrastructure and take best advantage of its benefits? IP technology has proven to reduce cost and increase productivity by allowing collaborative communications. This session will look at how the technology can bridge the gap of existing and emerging technologies and how you can integrate utility legacy devices. Come to hear different ways in which utilities can integrate both their legacy devices and modern IP–based devices into a common, rapid and efficient communications platform. Creating a Smart Utility Network of Networks Fred Fletcher, Assistant General Manager, Burbank Water & Power – Board Chair, UTC’s Smart Networks Council With the advent of micro and decentralized generation, utilities are increasingly changing delivery infrastructures so that they can reap the benefits of technological and regulatory changes. Other developments, such as wind farms and plug–in hybrid vehicles, will likewise force utilities to further design and manage delivery –– as well as infrastructure and consumer billing –– in new and innovative ways. All of these developments are propelling utilities to embrace smart IP network technologies while eyeing the creation of a Smart Utility Network of Networks (SUN2), an industry–wide, interconnected IP communications network. SUN2 will enable the faster deployment of smart energy networks by supporting multiple applications including but not limited to distributed– and micro–generation of energy, sharing of customer usage data, and sharing energy with other distribution utilities without the need to interconnect via a third–party transmission network. This session will feature an outline of the benefits of SUN2 highlighting work done by UTC’s Smart Networks Council. Spectrum Choices for Wireless Metering Klaus Bender, Director-RF Engineering, Utilities Telecom Council Presentation The transfer of meter data plays a fundamental role in the evolution of the smart grid. This presentation reviews wireless spectrum options for meter data acquisition, using both licensed and unlicensed spectrum. Attendees also will hear interference potential and remediation for the various spectrum solutions. Understanding the spectrum options is a key element in making wireless metering work; this presentation from UTC’s engineering director will help. 10:15 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Wally Magda, Senior Scada Security Consultant, Industrial Defender Presentation Stringent NERC cyber security standards will fall on utilities; meanwhile, more standards –– even more stringent –– will be coming. From identifying critical assets, to setting up a real, workable and secure electronic perimeter and auditable results, this session will look at security compliance issues from the IT perspective. With Congress and FERC calling for stronger measures and the issues of protecting key systems that use a variety of transmission methods, learn what you need to know and how to best address these issues. This session will provide participants with the latest information on security issues that utilities must address now. Interoperability Using Multiple Wireless Technologies Christian Beauregard, Senior Advisor - Wireless Data Solutions, RadioIP Software, Inc. Presentation In today’s cost-sensitive environment, successful utility companies provide optimal customer service by integrating company-wide mobile data technologies. This session will cover the solutions available to achieve interoperability among networks, applications and devices to allow mobile data communications over both IP and non-IP wireless networks. A case study will be presented on a large US based electric utility using disparate wireless network technologies for their mission-critical mobile data operations. Through unified communications, these applications are made available regardless of the end-user's location, network or device. The Canadian Grid Spectrum Allocation: How and Why It Worked Stephen Acker, Partner, Fasken Martineau DuMoulin, LLP Presentation They did it! In a decision of profound importance to the deployment of smart grids, Industry Canada announced late in December that it will move forward with the allocation of 1800–1830 MHz for the nation's electric grid. The consultation commenced last June with proposed changes to technical rules that would not restrict who could obtain licenses, but only their use. Now, new technical rules for the 1800–1830 MHz band will control radio systems carrying traffic exclusively for the maintenance and management of the electricity supply. Hear the current status of this vital proceeding and what implications it could have for the United States. Beyond the Data: A Look at Physical Security Solutions Curtis Johnson, Project Manager, Telecommunications, Black & Veatch Presentation What can utilities do to implement physical security programs to protect critical cyber assets? This session will cover solutions that cover security issues at remote locations, including solutions that can be used to combat copper theft. As we all know, copper theft and other risks not only cause financial loss, but pose a safety risk to personnel operating in substations – and is impacting the inspection schedules and manpower for substations. Find out how security can help address access control and authentication for substations. Spectrum Opportunities for Utilities in the 700 MHz and 14 GHz Bands Henry Goldberg, Esq., Partner, Goldberg, Godles, Wiener & Wright Presentation Mission–critical processes are measured by their ability to meet uptime and performance requirements, especially wireless systems. “Carrier–grade” wireless equipment and 700 MHz licensed high–speed spectrum are now available. The 700 MHz licensed spectrum provides a predictable RF environment protected from external interference, thus improving control over band management, security and speed. In addition, it provides privacy and good propagation, meaning fewer and lower towers needed and a more cost–effective deployment. Meanwhile, UTC has partnered to request secondary use of the 14.0–14.5 GHz satellite band by critical infrastructure, for broadband, shorter–distance communications. This session will explore these wireless opportunities and what they can mean for utilities. Smart Metering Requires Telecom Networks Arthur Locke, Regional Vice President of North American Utilities, Alcatel-Lucent Presentation Smart metering is the new way for utilities to monitor users’ consumption, give customers feedback about their carbon emissions, provide outage notifications, and more. Smart metering is likely to have to run over a broadband network. Regulators are pressuring utilities to get a handle on energy load control, demands and security. Yet, smart metering is just one part of the overall goal of “going green.” Utilities–generally slow to implement new technologies –are looking to existing networks and new, yet proven, equipment to help them achieve those aims. Find out what is going on right now in the industry and what options are available to your utility. AMR/AMI Impact on IT Systems Jonathan Pollet, Founder & Principal Consultant, Red Tiger Security Presentation 2:30 – 2:45 p.m.
Dan Draughn, Managing Director, RCC Consultants Presentation Ethernet to the substation; IP communications for critical infrastructure control networks; seamless integration for traditional enterprise IT and telecommunications functions: these are key issues that every utility is facing in one fashion or another today –– or will face soon. This session will focus on the role of traditional enterprise IT functions as they specifically are applied in critical infrastructure organizations, how their role is changing and how your utility can take advantage of these changes. This session will also discuss the financial implications of enterprise IT and how to address this in a utility environment. Transforming Your Enterprise with WiMax Technology & TV White Space Al Ittner, Manager - Spectrum & Regulatory Strategy, Motorola Inc. Presentation Utilities are at the crossroads of significant transformation in every segment of their enterprises. Workforce, regulatory and technology developments are combining to create a changing landscape. Wireless technologies, market trends and key technology players are driving the deployment of WiMax. WiMax could be used within utilities for voice and data communications, mobility enablement of the field worker and remote automation of fixed assets. Also unused broadcast TV spectrum, known as TV White Space, will shortly be available for unlicensed broadband access by consumers, business and government. There are some exciting new solutions for utilities and other critical infrastructure entities with these different options. See how you can take advantage. Real–Life Utility Smart Meter Projects Richard Bertolo, Project Director, Distribution Business Development, Hydro One Networks Presentation Smart meters are best–known part of smart grid, empowering consumers while providing utilities with much more data about energy use to promote overall energy efficiency and conservation. Critical for any utility to enable its smart metering/smart grid strategy is to have a telecommunications network that provides ubiquitous connectivity throughout its operating territory. Come hear how leading utilities are implementing this strategy over their entire service territory – including rural areas. This session will feature case studies from utilities on their projects to date. RFID, Wireless Tracking and Wireless Sensor Technology in Utilities Abeezar Tyebji, CEO, Shipcom Wireless Presentation Utilities must manage a vast infrastructure that often is remote; thus, they need to obtain status information with remote sensors and to track their equipment with RFID devices. This presentation will focus on why your utility needs to focus on RFID, which utilities are using RFID currently and how, and the broader applications for RFID. Find out how this technology can provide a positive return on investment and why your utility can no longer afford to ignore it. Deploying a Telecom Network for Your AMI Implementation Mike Burns, Smart Grid Applications / AMI Business Development, Itron Presentation Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) is the future. Yet implementation of an AMI system is a complicated process. The most critical step is to define the functional requirements for an AMI system by combining both hardware and software requirements. The attributes of the system will dictate the cost and capacity of your utility’s project. Specifically, these costs and capacity objectives are based on three distinct sets of requirements: applications, functional elements and engineering specifications. This session will look at each requirement in detail to provide clarity on the deployment of an AMI system. Next Generation Open Standard Digital Mobile Radio William P. Fredrickson, Vice President- Global Utilities, Tait Radio Communications Presentation This session will provide an overview of the next generation open standard digital voice and data network (ETSI DMR – Digital Mobile Radio). The session will explore the features inherent in the technology that enable improved voice communications as well as mobile data applications. Attendees will be briefed on FCC rulings and the applicability of DMR to provide both narrowband 12.5 KHz compliance and 6.25 KHz equivalency. A discussion of the pros and cons of DMR as an open standard will be included. The presentation will explore possible technology migration strategies that enable enterprises to scale their implementation to match budgets and operational needs while future proofing the investment. Wind Farm Telecommunications and SCADA Network Protection Ray Thomas, Western Regional Sales Manager, Positron Inc. Presentation Wind farm designers, planners and operators are facing new challenges in deploying SCADA and telecommunications networks within the wind farm territory. Typically, hundreds of wind generators are deployed, and a complex control and monitoring system must be connected to a centralized network in a very adverse operating environment. Network planners must address several criteria when determining the overall telecom network design. First, cost–effectiveness is required from fiber–based network solutions for the relatively thin or low bandwidth needs of individual wind generators. Second, installations must have robust performance and network reliability, including protection from high voltage faults and lightning events. Fiber–based network solutions are highly recommended for such complex installations. This session will address each specification in turn, and provide insight on optimized solutions for small and large wind farm projects. 4:00 – 4:15 p.m. Brett Kilbourne, Director of Regulatory Services & Associate Counsel, Utilities Telecom Council Presentation Thanks to the landmark economic stimulus package, the rush is on to capitalize on the grants, loans and matching funds available for Smart Grid projects and technology as well as broadband initiatives. Utilities are at the center of the action. Learn the big picture view of the funds available, the parameters for successful applications and the important deadlines for getting in on the action. Your association has been busy identifying and working with those on point at DOE, USDA’s RUS, NTIA and the FCC -- you should take advantage of what it has learned in order to get a leg-up on the application process. Interoperability During Disaster Restoration–A Utility Case Study Mary Ebel, Senior Telecom Analyst, Progress Energy Presentation This is a very important session that will feature two key utility case studies on interoperability during 2008’s Hurricane Ike. Come hear how it worked, how it didn’t, and what suggestions the utilities have on doing it better next time. With every utility bound to face a natural disaster of some type, this is a good session to help attendees understand how utilities can work together better to get the power back on, the water running and the gas flowing to their customers in the quickest, safest way possible. The Many Dimensions of the Smart Utility David Hulinsky, P.E., Engineering Manager-Telecommunications, Black & Veatch Presentation This session will present an overview of each dimension of the smart utility, from power distribution back to generation, and from information management to business processes and telecommunications. Each aspect of the smart utility is inter related, but faces a myriad of challenges that require enterprise–wide solutions to align all facets of a utility's operation. The important roles of engineering and telecom will also be explored and extrapolated during this session. Wireless AMI Technology Paul Zawada, Telecommunications Engineer, AEP Presentation Utilities have a variety of wireless AMI technology options, such as Zigbee, Wi–Fi and WiMAX solutions. These solutions may use licensed or unlicensed spectrum, or a combination of both. Some of the factors that are driving these technology solutions include scalability, security and standardization, just to name a few. Other factors affecting the technology selection are range, bandwidth and RF interference, particularly if AMI is part of an overall smart grid strategy for other applications such as HAN, PHEVs and DG. This session will examine the technical issues and the decision factors for integrating wireless into your AMI implementation. 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. Thursday, June 4 9:30 – 9:45 a.m. 9:45 – 11:45 a.m. David Shpigler, President, The Shpigler Group Presentation Financing a project is always one of the major sticking points driving investment decisions. Proving the long–term financial benefits of these projects is often difficult, considering there is little precedent from other utilities to prove the worth of next–generation improvements. This session will discuss the financial implications of making the investment in the next–generation utility, highlighting the financial benefits that can accrue alongside the operational benefits. You can manage financial expectations while still getting your next–generation projects on the high–priority list for tight capital dollars. Process Control Systems Workshop: SCADA and Beyond Rita Wells, Manager/Scada and Process Control Systems, Idaho National Laboratory Whether you call it DCS, SCADA or something else, critical infrastructures don’t function without control systems to monitor vital functions and shut down operations when danger arises. How well do you understand what these systems do and how they are changing? There are new technologies available that can improve system functions. This workshop is designed to provide the basics of control systems; to examine the many security issues facing them; and to cover efforts to move to the next, more secure, generation of technology. UTC Narrowbanding Workshop Jill Lyon, Vice President & General Counsel, Utilities Telecom Council Federal Communications Commission (FCC) deadlines requiring the “refarming” or “narrowbanding” of Private Land Mobile Radio (PLMR) systems operating in spectrum bands below 512 MHz are approaching quickly. This workshop, hosted by UTC experts, will provide an up–to–date perspective for analyzing and upgrading PLMR systems that must be changed from 25 kHz to 12.5 kHz, and improved now to meet future requirements. Equipment, frequency bands, even licensing methods can be important factors in deciding your utility’s best solution. If you have systems operating in the 150–512 MHz bands and have not yet narrowbanded, attending this session is a must! Follow the Money Trail: Navigating the Economic Stimulus Funding Maze Mike Meyer, Project Manager, Black & Veatch Presentation Once you know what’s available under the ARRA, how do you put together a successful application? This workshop will go beyond the basics to focus on navigating the complex government funding maze. Speakers will discuss both the content perspective – to comply with the specific FOA requirements issued by DOE, NTIA and RUS – and the procedural standpoint, making sure the right form is used and deadlines are not missed. 12:00 p.m. and Beyond |
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