Ausgrid to create digital twin of entire network

Digital twin concept image (digital transformation)
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Ausgrid has partnered with cloud-based utilities analytics platform Neara to build a digital twin of its entire network, improving grid reliability and resiliency, and optimising operational efficiency.

The digital twin will combine 3D spatial visualisation with full engineering-grade analytics functionality, which will enable Ausgrid staff to design and monitor poles and wires remotely, rather than on site, resulting in improved efficiency for customers.

Related article: Endeavour Energy pioneers digital twin modelling

Ausgrid general manager of asset management Junayd Hollis said Ausgrid was committed to delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions for customers now and in the future, while minimising its impact on the environment and actively responding to climate change.

“We are investing in digital innovation to evolve our network’s ability to support the energy mix of the future, including accelerated adoption of renewable generation and distributed energy resources,” Hollis said.

“In Neara we have found a partner which understands and shares our ambitions and has the expertise to build and scale a solution which will enable a more resilient and optimised network for our customers, particularly in the face of climate change and more extreme weather events.”

Related article: Ausgrid joins global smart grid partnership

Neara chief commercial officer Jack Curtis said Neara would also deploy a broad spectrum of physics-enabled use cases to optimise vegetation management, identify and remediate at-risk assets, prioritise maintenance tasks and optimise network design, operation and interaction.

“We look forward to partnering with Ausgrid to enhance their existing network activities and support their vision for a reliable grid in the face of increasing environmental challenges, and in the rapid transition to a cleaner energy mix,” Curtis said.

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