July 29, 2014 – Alstom launched its next-generation integrated distribution management system (IDMS), saying it leverages its “service-oriented architecture across the utility enterprise by integrating data from many disparate and new areas of the evolving distribution grid”.

The IDMS is based on Alstom’s ‘e-terradistribution’ platform with modular applications to actively monitor and optimize the performance of the electric distribution grid by integrating SCADA, distribution management and outage management functions on a common platform and distribution network model. It provides simulation capabilities to analyze the impact of distributed energy resources (DER) penetration on real-time grid operations, and promises to improve operating procedures during blue-sky days and storm restoration. By integrating data from advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) and distribution automation, and providing advanced distribution model validation and management, this latest technology promises to help utilities better visualize the real-time status of their network and optimize grid performance.