As the utility sector evolves, digital transformation and innovation have taken center stage. These topics were on full display at the recent IEEE PES Transmission and Distribution Conference during the panel on "Substation Digitization: A True Digital Twin for Substations and How to Get There.”
The panel highlighted the transformative potential of digital twin technology, featuring utility experts from Autodesk, Bentley, primtech North America and Spatial Business Systems. Will Rambo, Director of Technology at POWER Engineers, moderated the discussion.
Afterwards, Rambo sat down with me for a deeper discussion on the subject—offering a nuanced perspective on topics ranging from integrating Industry 4.0 technologies to change management and talent acquisition.
Technological integration, utility challenges amidst the energy transition, and the future trajectory of digital transformation emerged as critical focal points. Our conversation helped decode the complexities of modernization efforts and illuminate the path forward for utilities navigating the digital frontier.
Utility Challenges and the Energy Transition
With utilities facing the dual challenge of modernizing infrastructure while embracing sustainable energy sources, Rambo stressed the need for solutions that can bridge the gap between legacy systems and the demands of a rapidly evolving energy landscape. He framed digital twin technology as a critical piece of this transition, noting its potential to serve as a catalyst for progress. For Rambo, this technology offers utilities tools to navigate a dynamic energy transformation with more agility and efficacy.
"We're in this energy transition, right? And simultaneously we’ve still got 100-year-old infrastructure to maintain. So how do we do it? We need a force multiplier, and digital twin technology is just the tool to do that.” – Will Rambo, POWER Engineers
Will Rambo (left) Introducing the Panelists
Technology Integration and Industry 4.0
Rambo says the convergence of cutting-edge technologies within the power industry is reshaping the landscape of substation design, construction, and maintenance—Industry 4.0 isn’t just for smart manufacturing. This "perfect storm" of technological advancements holds transformative potential for addressing aging infrastructure during an ongoing energy transition, he contends. In Rambo’s view, they are a force multiplier that can boost operational efficiency, safety, and decision-making within the industry.
According to Rambo, multiple forces—from legislative mandates to technological readiness to the proven success of similar initiatives in other sectors—make this a prime moment for utilities to embrace digital twin technology. These dynamics set the stage for a paradigm shift in how utilities approach operational challenges and innovation.
Change Management and a Culture of Innovation
Change management and pragmatic implementation strategies are vital to successful digital transformation, Rambo says. A phased approach that acknowledges organizational inertia and resistance to change allows utilities to break their digitalization jorney into smaller, more manageable steps.
"It's a journey. And I think that's the lesson in all of this: that there are pretty simple use cases to take on and try before feeling the need to dive in feet first. Utilities can dip their toes in with small projects first to start that journey." – Will Rambo
For skeptics, Rambo spotlighted success stories from other industries, affirming that digitization is both real and valuable. Framing digitalization as a journey rather than a daunting task, he encouraged utilities to embrace change and capitalize on the many opportunities presented by emerging technologies.
Rambo's emphasis on starting small and demonstrating tangible value early resonated with the IEEE PES T&D Conference panel audience. He added that cultivating a culture of innovation and adaptability within utilities is key to growth and resilience in an increasingly dynamic landscape. Together, these philosophies offer a pragmatic blueprint for tackling the complexities of digital transformation.
Including the Human Element and Talent Acquisition
Throughout the panel and our conversation, Rambo reiterated human capital’s pivotal role in driving successful digital transformation initiatives. In his view, utilities need to showcase meaningful work and purpose in driving the energy transition. The community impact and service done by utilities can serve as a unique selling point in setting them apart from competing employers in the quest for top talent.
“It’s a huge selling point for our industry: we're making a big impact with the energy transition. If you can bring that talent in that is purpose-driven and is interested in helping save the planet, then we can still attract and retain top-level talent.”
Rambo also underscored the changing expectations of younger generations. Linking talent acquisition with the broader mission of advancing sustainability and innovation within the industry is an important consideration for utilities
to remain competitive in an increasingly digital landscape.
Highlighting the Consultant Role and Expertise
With a wealth of design and construction expertise at their disposal, Rambo explained how firms like POWER Engineers serve as trusted partners in navigating complex modernization efforts. Consultants like POWER offer subject matter expertise, design optimization, and advice throughout the entire digital transformation value chain.
"We can help along the whole value chain…with clients as they require,” he noted. By leveraging diverse skillsets and industry knowledge, consulting firms provide utilities with solutions tailored to their unique challenges and objectives.
As an example, Rambo pointed to the regulatory forces shaping digital twin technology adoption within the power industry. Consulting firms can help sort through shifting laws and regulations, particularly in areas like environmental permitting and sustainability. Their subject matter expertise helps ensure compliance and facilitates seamless project execution.
“Having subject matter expertise in some of those legislative and regulatory efforts, consultants like us can help utilities stay up to date and plan ahead.” – Will Rambo
Moving Forward
Rambo discusses a future where AI-powered tools streamline design processes, optimize operations, and improve data analysis. The dynamic nature of technological evolution within the energy industry should motivate utilities that want to stay ahead of rising competition to embrace innovation.
Reflecting on the collective wisdom shared at the conference, Rambo captured the essence of the industry’s trajectory: “It's real. I think some people don't believe that this technology is real, right? And I would say that's a big takeaway: this is real.”
The power sector, Rambo believes, should seize the moment and embark on its digital journey with confidence.