Case Studies
German Avacon promotes sustainability work and digitization with SIPP
November 2023
In this interview, Colin Williams, Principal Technology Specialist at IBM, delves into the transformative collaboration between IBM, Gomero, and Ellevio. The discussion highlights the development of a cutting-edge solution for asset lifecycle management that aims to redefine operational efficiency and sustainability in the energy and utilities sector.
Q: Colin, could you start by describing your role in this project?
“I’m a Principal Technology Specialist at IBM, focusing on asset lifecycle management,” explains Colin. “My primary responsibility is to help clients transform their business and operational processes using our technology, particularly within the Maximo domain. Over the past two years, I’ve worked closely with Gomero to align strategies and technical expertise, paving the way for this partnership.”
The collaboration leverages IBM’s robust Maximo technology and Gomero’s deep expertise in energy and utilities. This alignment has culminated in a solution that integrates remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and real-time data analytics to optimize energy grid operations.
Q: How would you define the collaboration between IBM and Gomero?
“The synergy here is remarkable,” Colin says. “IBM brings a global perspective and technological expertise, while Gomero offers unparalleled specialization in energy and utility operations. Together, we’ve created a solution that connects physical assets at the edge, such as substations and transformers, to IBM’s Maximo domain. This integration not only improves asset performance management but also scales globally to address industry-wide challenges.”
Gomero’s understanding of grid technology and substation operations has been instrumental in bridging the gap between physical infrastructure and advanced analytics, making the collaboration a model for innovation in the sector.
Q: How do you think existing and future customers will benefit from this joint offering?
“For energy and utility organizations with geographically dispersed assets, remote monitoring transforms maintenance operations,” Colin explains. “It enhances safety, reduces the need for on-site inspections, and improves productivity by providing actionable insights through centralized dashboards.”
The solution addresses both current operational needs and future demands, setting the stage for advanced predictive maintenance. By enabling near real-time data collection and analytics, customers can proactively manage their assets, optimize grid efficiency, and reduce downtime.
Q: How important is the proof-of-concept (POC) project with Ellevio?
“Massive,” Colin emphasizes. “This POC demonstrates the feasibility of integrating physical asset data into a monitoring system that generates actionable alerts. It’s not just theoretical, we’re showing tangible results.”
The project underscores the value of aligning technology and analytics to support predictive maintenance. By proving the concept’s scalability and effectiveness, the collaboration is setting a benchmark for the industry.
Q: What has been your impression of the team at Gomero?
“Their professionalism and expertise are exceptional,” says Colin. “Gomero’s knowledge of grid technology and remote condition monitoring is unparalleled. This partnership reflects our commitment to working with specialists who align with IBM’s standards and values.”
Gomero’s capabilities have been crucial in developing solutions that not only meet operational needs but also uphold IBM’s reputation for innovation and reliability.
Q: From a market perspective, what do you see as the most compelling benefit of this solution?
"From a maintenance perspective, the ability to remotely monitor assets from a centralized office is a game-changer,” Colin states. “It improves operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability while addressing the rising costs and environmental impact of energy production.”
As the energy and utilities industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, this collaboration offers a scalable, forward-looking solution. By optimizing grid performance and enabling predictive maintenance, IBM and Gomero are helping organizations provide better services to society while reducing environmental impact.
The partnership between IBM, Gomero, and Ellevio exemplifies how collaborations can drive meaningful innovation. With the success of the POC project, this solution is poised to positively change the energy and utilities sector, delivering enhanced operational capabilities and paving the way for a more sustainable future.