GIS-based solution improves data integration and utility performance
TORONTO—September 25, 2019—AltaGas Utilities Inc. (AUI), a regulated gas distributor in Alberta, has implemented a new geographic information system (GIS)-based network management solution that enables its staff to more efficiently create, manage and share information about its network. AUI recently went live with Esri’s Utility Network Management solution, which enhances operational awareness and decision-making by delivering advanced asset modelling and system integration capabilities, a modern web GIS architecture and analysis tools for unprecedented levels of information gathering and sharing.
Since implementing the Utility Network, AUI has seen increased outage management capabilities and improved data records supporting gas distribution service to its 80,000 customers across Alberta, as well as realized significant cost and time savings from the simplified administration of its assets and operations.
“Implementing the Utility Network has helped us improve the integrity and accessibility of our utility network data,” says Mathew Desbiens, GIS manager, AUI. “It provides an authoritative view of our assets to everyone across our utility, allowing for greater collaboration and efficiencies in our daily operations and supporting regulatory compliance.” He further added, “Esri Utility Network benefits are all about the data. The manner in which the Utility Network data schema is organized and the built-in connectivity validation process ensure that all the data in our GIS Utility Network comply with unique rules defined specifically by our organization.”
AUI has extended the Utility Network capabilities primarily to support industry-proposed asset management Tracking & Traceability requirements (known as the ASTM-F2897 standard) and deliver communication efficiencies between field and office workflows. The solution’s web services capabilities allow staff inside and outside the office to collaborate and keep data on assets along its distribution network up to date.
“Esri Canada is proud to work with AUI as it transforms its network management capabilities to add more functionality, flexibility and better access to information,” says Brian Bell, Director of Utilities at Esri Canada. “With the Utility Network, AUI is well-positioned to support increasing industry requirements and provide better services to its customers.”
Learn more about Esri Utility Network Management. To see it in action, register for the October 10 webinar: “Perspectives on Successfully Transitioning to the ArcGIS Utility Network”.
About AltaGas Utilities Inc.
AltaGas Utilities Inc. (AUI) is a public utility delivering safe, reliable, clean, and cost-efficient natural gas service to over 80,000 residential, rural, commercial and industrial customers in more than 90 communities across Alberta. AUI operates over 21,000 km of natural gas pipelines and over 700 pressure and regulating stations throughout its distribution network.
AUI commenced operations as an Alberta, provincially regulated, natural gas distribution utility in 1954. With AUI’s Head Office located in Leduc, Alberta, AUI operates its gas distribution systems through a network of 16 district offices.
About Esri Canada
Founded in 1984, Esri Canada provides geographic information system (GIS) solutions that empower people in business, government and education to make informed and timely decisions by leveraging the power of mapping and spatial analytics. These solutions enable organizations to better manage their resources, plan their future and collaborate within and beyond their organization. Esri Canada’s products and services help advance successful digital transformation. The company serves 12,000 organizations from 16 offices across Canada and is based in Toronto. In 2015, Esri Canada became a Gold Standard winner of Canada’s Best Managed Companies and in 2016 was named one of Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures. More information can be found at esri.ca. Follow Esri Canada on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.