2026 Event Schedule

As utilities continue to advance their deployment of Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS), a growing challenge lies not in the availability of advanced functionalities, but in realizing their full operational potential. Many tools—ranging from traditional advanced automation features to emerging AI-enabled capabilities—remain underutilized due to data quality barriers, integration complexities, operator readiness, and the need for robust validation in real-world conditions. This panel brings together utility and vendor perspectives to explore how to bridge the gap between tool capabilities and active use in control room operations. Panelists will discuss practical strategies for accelerating adoption, overcoming implementation barriers, and preparing for the next generation of intelligent grid operations. Attendees will gain insights into how utilities are evolving their operational practices and how vendors are supporting this transition through innovation, customization, and collaboration.

Panel Description
This panel session will explore how utilities and technology providers are advancing the use of automation and AI to meet the growing complexity of distribution system operations. The discussion will focus on practical strategies for deploying advanced functionalities within ADMS platforms and other operational tools, and how to ensure these capabilities are effectively integrated into real-time control room environments.

Panelists will share insights on:

• The challenges utilities face in adopting advanced tools, including operator acceptance, system integration, and performance under real-world conditions.
• The importance of robust testing to validate tool performance before full deployment.
• How utilities are working to streamline workflows, identify functions suitable for automation, and prepare for the integration of AI-enabled decision support.
• Vendor perspectives on enabling customization, supporting utility-specific needs, and developing emerging capabilities.

This session is designed for utility professionals—especially those from IOUs, municipal, and cooperative utilities—who are navigating the transition to more intelligent, automated, and data-driven operations.

Session Goals

• Facilitate a candid exchange between area leaders (utilities and vendors) on what it takes to move from acquisition to production with advanced operational tools.
• Highlight mechanisms that accelerate adoption and ensure tools are aligned with operational realities.
• Explore how advanced functions and AI are reshaping the future of control room operations and distribution system management.