Glossary of Utility Industry Terms
To become familiar with the terms in the industry is to give yourself a chance because the industry is quite esoteric. This glossary will continue to be updated.
AI generated image of a neon-lit city
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI): A system that enables two-way communication between utility companies and consumers by collecting and transmitting data on electricity consumption, voltage, and other information in near real-time. AMI enables utilities to remotely monitor and manage their distribution systems and allows consumers to better understand and manage their energy usage.
Consumer Technology: The technology and devices that consumers use to manage their energy consumption, such as smart thermostats, energy monitoring systems, and other connected devices.
Control Systems: Systems that manage and monitor various processes within the utility industry, such as generation, transmission, and distribution of energy.
Digital Technologies: A broad category of technologies that enable the collection, storage, analysis, and sharing of data. In the utility industry, digital technologies are used to manage and optimize energy systems, improve grid reliability, and enhance customer engagement.
Distribution Management System (DMS): A software system that manages the distribution of electricity by monitoring and controlling distribution equipment such as transformers, switches, and feeders.
Emissions Monitoring: The process of monitoring and measuring the emissions of pollutants from power plants and other energy-related sources.
Energy Management System (EMS): A software system that helps utility companies manage their energy supply and demand by optimizing the operation of power plants, transmission, and distribution systems.
Energy Technology: A broad category of technologies used to produce, distribute, and manage energy, including renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, and energy-efficient technologies.
Energy Trading: The buying and selling of energy commodities, such as electricity, natural gas, and oil, in markets around the world.
Fuel Management: The process of managing and optimizing the use of fuel in power plants and other energy-related facilities.
Generation Scheduling: The process of scheduling the generation of electricity from various power plants to meet demand and ensure the reliable operation of the grid.
Operating Technology: The technology and systems used to operate and manage the physical infrastructure of energy systems, such as power plants, transmission lines, and distribution networks.
Power Plant Control Systems: The software and hardware systems used to control and monitor the operation of power plants, including boilers, turbines, and generators.
Programmable Logic Controller: A type of computer used to control industrial processes, including those related to energy generation and distribution.
Rate Case: A regulatory process used to determine the appropriate rates that utilities can charge their customers for electricity and other services.
Remote Terminal Unit: A device used to remotely monitor and control equipment in energy-related facilities, such as power plants and substations.
Renewable Energy: Energy generated from renewable sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro power.
Risk Management: The process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to the operation of energy systems, including physical, financial, and regulatory risks.
SCADA: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. A software system used to control and monitor industrial processes, including those related to energy generation and distribution.
Smart Appliances: Appliances that are connected to the internet and can be controlled remotely, allowing consumers to better manage their energy usage.
Smart Cities: Cities that use technology and data to improve the efficiency of their infrastructure and services, including energy systems.
Smart Grid: A modern electricity grid that uses digital technologies, such as advanced metering infrastructure and distribution management systems, to improve grid reliability, efficiency, and sustainability.
System Reliability: The ability of energy systems to provide reliable and uninterrupted service to customers.
Technology and Service Provider (TSP): A company that provides technology and services to the utility industry, including software systems, equipment, and consulting services.
Utilities Management: The management and operation of utility companies, including the generation, transmission, and distribution of energy, as well as the provision of water and other essential services.
Zero-Net Building: A building that produces as much energy as it consumes, typically through the use of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies.
Water Production Volumes: The amount of water produced by a water utility company, typically measured in gallons or cubic meters.
Water Consumption Volumes: The amount of water consumed by customers of a water utility company, typically measured in gallons or cubic meters.
Water-Energy Nexus: The interconnected relationship between water and energy systems, where the production and distribution of water and energy are interdependent.
M2M: Machine-to-Machine communication, a process where devices or machines communicate with each other without human intervention.
Predictive Maintenance: The use of data and analytics to predict when equipment or machinery will require maintenance, reducing downtime and improving reliability.
Water Risk: The risk of water scarcity, pollution, or other issues that may affect the supply or quality of water available to a utility company or its customers.
Value of Water: The economic and social value of water, including its importance to human health, the environment, and the economy.
Hydrological Systems: The natural systems that regulate the distribution and movement of water in the environment, including rivers, lakes, and aquifers.
Corporate Water Management: The management and optimization of water resources by corporations, including the reduction of water consumption and the management of water-related risks.
Physical Water Risk: The risk of physical water scarcity or flooding that may affect the supply or quality of water available to a utility company or its customers.
Regulatory Water Risk: The risk of regulatory changes that may affect the supply or quality of water available to a utility company or its customers.
Reputational Water Risk: The risk of negative public perception or reputation damage that may result from a utility company's water-related practices or incidents.
Grey Infrastructure: Traditional, built infrastructure used to manage water resources, such as dams, pipelines, and treatment plants.
Green Infrastructure: Natural systems and features used to manage water resources, such as wetlands, rain gardens, and green roofs.
Water-Related Liabilities: The financial liabilities and risks associated with water-related issues, such as pollution, scarcity, and regulatory compliance.
Integrated Resource Plan: A long-term plan that outlines a utility company's strategy for meeting future energy and water demand, typically through a combination of supply-side and demand-side measures.
Capital Improvement Planning: The process of planning and budgeting for long-term capital projects, such as the construction or upgrade of energy or water infrastructure.