Ameren partners with ABB in multi-billion grid modernisation project

Ameren Illinois has selected ABB to deliver a predictive maintenance solution as part of its grid modernisation initiative. Ameren Illinois will use ABB Ability Ellipse Asset Performance Management to optimise asset management and increase power reliability for one million customers. The software solution will allow the energy company to better predict and prevent the failure of mission-critical equipment under the firm’s multi-million dollar grid modernisation project. The solution will eliminate manual regularly scheduled “check-ups” to maintain grid infrastructure. The technology uses sensors, data and advanced analytics to constantly assess the real-time condition of assets, determine when they might need repair or replacement and alert the stakeholders. This allows utilities to prioritise short- and long-term maintenance needs and drive productivity, safety and return on investment from critical grid assets. “We are investing significant resources to modernise the grid, improve reliability and deliver value for our customers,” said Ron Pate, senior vice president, operations and technical services, Ameren Illinois. The solution will be complemented by existing ABB transformers, Ability Network Manager, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition/Advanced Distribution Management System, Ability Velocity Suite, ABB Ability PROMOD and ABB Ability distributed control systems, deployed by Ameren Illinois.