Why Energy and Utility Companies Should Automate
Published on : Monday 12-02-2024
Automation can improve system diagnostics, minimise maintenance costs, and create personalised solutions, says Benedicta Chettiar.
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Almost every industry, regardless of type and size, is harnessing the potential of automation. From healthcare to hospitality and manufacturing to automobiles, organisations are investing their time and money in automation technologies.
In fact, the global automation market size is estimated to hit US$441.7 bn by 2030 from US$177.57 bn in 2021, according to a research report from Spherical Insights & Consulting. So, as an energy and utility industry leader, what are you waiting for?
Several reasons can be considered for the use of automation in energy and utility to automate processes. Some of which are discussed below:
Customised use of energy
Today, energy consumers are being more aware of their energy usage than ever before. They look for a customised use of energy which can be possibly provided by automation technologies. Automation can allow utility companies to use digital tools for their customers’ homes or businesses to understand what kind of programs would meet their requirements while helping them save money.
Operational efficiency and enhanced accuracy
Automation can be beneficial in streamlining routine and repetitive tasks, lessening the time and effort required to perform them manually. This, in turn, results in improved operational efficiency, allowing companies and employees to focus on more complex and strategic tasks. It can also minimise the likelihood of human errors in data entry, calculations, and other routine tasks.
Faster decision-making and enhanced customer service
Implementing automation technologies facilitates real-time data analysis and reporting, enabling faster and more informed decision-making. This is essential in the dynamic energy and utility sector where quick responses to market changes and emergencies are essential. These technologies can also enhance customer service by providing quicker responses to customer inquiries. This results in efficient billing processes, and enabling self-service options.
Scalability and cybersecurity
Automated systems are designed to scale with growing demands. This scalability is vital for energy and utility companies as they expand their operations, handle vast data volumes, and adapt to evolving market conditions. These systems can also integrate robust security measures. This helps businesses safeguard sensitive data and critical infrastructure. Using automated security protocols can enable them to respond to threats more rapidly than manual interventions.
Environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance
By utilising automation, utility and power sector companies can contribute to environmental sustainability by optimising energy consumption, lowering waste, and improving overall resource efficiency. This aligns with the broader goals of many energy and utility companies to promote sustainable practices. Automated systems can also help ensure compliance with regulatory requirements by standardising processes and providing accurate and auditable records. This is crucial in an industry where adherence to regulations is a priority.
How can you drive the future of energy?
You, as an industry leader, can start your automation journey with Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Intelligent Process Automation (IPA). These automation technologies can be a great tool across utility enterprises. They can support IT, accounting, operations, customer service, and more.
By harnessing the potential of automation, energy and utility companies can improve system diagnostics, minimise maintenance costs, and create personalised solutions. They can also be able to continuously evaluate performance and change the workflows and processes.

The way ahead
As the world is rapidly moving towards new-age technologies, investing in automation can be a smart move for your business growth. It can help across your lines of business and power you to fulfil the continuously growing needs of energy consumers.
For more insights on automation, visit https://www.industrialautomationindia.in/
Benedicta Chettiar is Director, IED Communications and Manager, Strategic Developments, Industrial Automation. Besides these roles, Beni, as she is known, is also actively managing the affairs of Jyothi Process, a state-of-the-art printing press.
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