The power transmission and distribution industry is undergoing a technological transformation aimed at enhancing efficiency, reliability, and safety.
From advanced utility locating methods to GIS-based infrastructure mapping, these innovations are reshaping how companies manage their networks and projects. The country’s power grid is overtaxed and in desperate need of an overhaul. And the ongoing electrification of our world is only exacerbating the issues.
It takes advanced technologies to solve the problems facing the industry today.
Advanced Utility Locating Technology
Before any excavation or construction project, accurately locating underground utilities is crucial. Traditional methods, often relying on outdated maps and guesswork, can lead to costly errors and dangerous accidents. Modern technology offers more precise and reliable solutions for utility locating.
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a non-invasive method that uses electromagnetic waves to detect objects beneath the surface. GPR is highly effective in identifying the location and depth of buried utilities, including pipes, cables, and conduits. This technology provides real-time data and detailed images of subsurface conditions, reducing the risk of damaging existing infrastructure during excavation.
Electromagnetic (EM) Locators
Electromagnetic (EM) locators are used to detect and trace underground metallic utilities. These devices transmit a signal through the utility, which can then be traced above ground using a receiver. Electromagnetic locators are particularly useful for locating electrical and telecommunications cables, as well as metal pipelines.
Benefits of Accurate Utility Locating
Accurate utility locating before breaking ground offers several significant benefits:
- Safety: By precisely identifying the location of underground utilities, construction teams can avoid accidental strikes, reducing the risk of injuries and fatalities
- Cost Savings: Avoiding utility strikes prevents costly repairs, project delays, and potential fines from regulatory bodies
- Efficiency: Accurate utility locating streamlines the excavation process, allowing projects to proceed more quickly and smoothly
- Environmental Protection: Preventing damage to underground utilities minimizes the risk of environmental contamination from leaks or ruptures
GIS-Based Infrastructure Mapping
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are transforming how the power transmission and distribution industry maps, manages, and analyzes its infrastructure. GIS technology integrates spatial data with various layers of information, providing a comprehensive view of the network.
Real-Time Data Integration
GIS platforms allow for real-time integration of data from various sources, such as satellite imagery, field surveys, and sensor networks. This real-time data integration enables utility companies to monitor their infrastructure continuously, identify potential issues, and respond quickly to emergencies.
Asset Management
GIS-based infrastructure mapping provides a detailed and accurate inventory of all assets within the transmission and distribution network. This includes power lines, substations, transformers, and other critical components. Having a precise and up-to-date asset database improves maintenance planning, asset management, and decision-making processes.
Predictive Maintenance
By analyzing historical data and identifying patterns, GIS technology can support predictive maintenance strategies. Predictive maintenance involves anticipating equipment failures and addressing issues before they escalate, reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of assets.
Benefits of GIS-Based Infrastructure Mapping
- Enhanced Planning and Design: GIS provides comprehensive spatial data that supports better planning and design of new infrastructure projects. Engineers can visualize the entire network, assess potential challenges, and optimize routes and placements
- Improved Operational Efficiency: Real-time data and advanced analytics enable utility companies to monitor network performance, detect anomalies, and optimize operations. This leads to reduced energy losses, improved reliability, and cost savings
- Informed Decision-Making: GIS technology offers powerful visualization and analysis tools that support informed decision-making. Utility companies can evaluate different scenarios, assess risks, and make data-driven choices
- Regulatory Compliance: Maintaining accurate and detailed records of infrastructure assets helps utility companies comply with regulatory requirements. GIS-based mapping ensures that all necessary information is readily available for audits and inspections
Smart Grid Technology
Smart grid technology is another significant advancement in the power transmission and distribution industry. A smart grid uses digital communication technology to detect and react to local changes in electricity usage. This technology enhances the reliability, efficiency, and sustainability of the power grid.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) consists of smart meters, communication networks, and data management systems. Smart meters provide real-time data on electricity consumption, allowing for more accurate billing and better demand management. AMI also enables two-way communication between utilities and consumers, facilitating demand response programs and energy conservation efforts.
Distribution Automation
Distribution automation involves the use of sensors, controllers, and communication networks to monitor and control the distribution network in real time. This technology improves the reliability and efficiency of the power grid by enabling faster fault detection, isolation, and restoration.
Renewable Energy Integration
Smart grid technology supports the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into the power grid. Advanced forecasting and grid management tools help balance supply and demand, ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply.
GPRS Services Support Power Transmission Distribution Industry
Since 2001, GPRS has supported power transmission and distribution, and renewable energy projects through our suite of infrastructure visualization services.
Our SIM-certified Project Managers use industry-leading utility locating and precision concrete scanning technologies to provide an immediate and accurate report of subsurface utilities, allowing you to safely and successfully complete your projects. We provide 3D laser scanning services to capture and create a permanent record of our concrete scanning and utility locating markings, as well your site’s aboveground features to create accurate existing condition documentation for not just your current project, but future operations & maintenance (O&M).
All this field-verified data is at your fingertips 24/7 thanks to SiteMap® (patent pending), GPRS’ cloud-based infrastructure mapping software solution. Accessible via computer, tablet, or smartphone, SiteMap® allows for easy, yet secure viewing and sharing of your vital infrastructure data whenever and wherever you need it.
To further support the Power Transmission Distribution Industry, GPRS created our Partnership Plus program, which includes priority scheduling to ensure we get on site with you as quickly as possible.
From skyscrapers to sewer lines, GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World® to keep you on time, on budget, and safe.
What can we help you visualize? Click below to schedule a service or request a quote today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of informational output is provided when GPRS conducts a utility locate?
Our Project Managers flag and paint our findings directly on the surface. This method of communication is the most accurate form of marking when excavation is expected to commence within a few days of service.
GPRS also uses a global positioning system (GPS) to collect data points of findings. We use this data to generate a plan, KMZ file, satellite overlay, or CAD file to permanently preserve results for future use. GPRS does not provide land surveying services. If you need land surveying services, please contact a professional land surveyor. Please contact us to discuss the pricing and marking options your project may require.
Is GPRS able to distinguish between each type of underground utility located?
In most situations, we can identify the utility in question without any problems, although it is not always possible to determine what type of utility is present. When this happens, we attempt to trace the utility to a valve, meter, control box, or other signifying markers to determine the type of utility buried.
