IT and OT Work Together to Make Grids Smarter

The joining of information technology and operational technology, also known as IT/OT convergence, will be the key to modernizing electricity grids. Informational technology uses real-time data collection in customer information systems, management systems and more while operational technology generally powers asset management systems and control systems without human interaction. Integrating these two networks will optimize the data management of utilities.

An article in T&D World references Black & Veatch’s 2020 Strategic Directions Electric Report as evidence that the electric industry is already aware of these potential benefits, saying, “The report indicated that the electrical industry is seeing enough activity that it may change how it views the benefits of integrated IT/OT systems.”

According to the article, IT/OT convergence will interconnect the energy grid and allow for a stronger, greener, more flexible system. It will also incorporate cybersecurity. As utilities recognize these potential benefits, IT/OT convergence is sure to become the norm.

Black & Veatch’s 2020 Strategic Directions Electric Report combines analyses by experts with a survey of more than 600 industry sector stakeholders to consider the complex issues facing the power sector today. It delves into the importance of renewables, hydrogen and battery energy storage to the sweeping transformation the industry will undergo in its journey to becoming greener and cleaner.