Power Utilities and GIS Mapping

Modern power utilities form a complex network of gas and electricity production and distribution, and typically combine gas and electric power services. The distribution of natural gas and electricity requires line maintenance, service monitoring, outage management, emergency response, planning and research, sales, and engineering. Many are surprised to learn that GIS mapping serves each of these requirements. Large power utilities enable GIS mapping systems to manage as much of their operations as possible, and has been proven time and again to reduce costs and improve service. From stations and pipe pressure to valves and pipe diameter, a complete GIS system can manage every detail of the operations and maintenance for power utilities.

The next time the lights go out during a storm, it may be that your power utility is using their GIS mapping system to respond to the outage. Using a map of their distribution system, which includes the utility poles on your street, the utility manager can identify which pole needs servicing, and the best route to that location. Maintenance crews can collect data in real-time using Mobile GIS hand-held devices when they are in the field.

Utilities also employ GIS to manage custom service, mapping all customers, manage a log of gas and power maintenance as customer addresses, and schedule maintenance. This allows the customer service representatives to view an aerial image of a customer and know where the utilities facilities are located: pole, meter, and gas lines. Maintenance crews can therefore know where to go when they arrive at a customer’s address. Water utilities also use GIS to manage water resources, distribution, and facilities similar to gas and power utilities.

As providing safe and affordable gas, water, and electric utilities to millions of customers, GIS mapping system are integral to the daily operations of a billion dollar industry. Visit the webpage of ESRI (Environmental Sensitivities Research Institute: www.esri.com) to learn more about GIS mapping platforms and applications for the utility industry.

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