New York, New Ways: How the City That Never Sleeps is Powering the Future of Energy.

At the forefront of this transformation is Con Edison, one of the largest energy providers in the U.S., supplying electricity, gas, and steam to millions of people. But they’re doing more than just keeping the lights on — together with us they’re pioneering how energy systems work. By seamlessly integrating IT systems, such as data analytics and AI-driven platforms, with OT systems like energy grids and meters, Siemens Advanta has helped Con Edison create a true partnership between energy provider and consumers through our Siemens Xcelerator portfolio. 

Why IT/OT Integration matters.

Our energy grids are the backbone of daily life, but they were never designed to handle the modern world's demands. Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) have historically worked in silos, limiting their ability to react dynamically to real-world challenges. But when IT systems work together with OT systems, they unlock massive potential for efficiency and resilience. Imagine an energy system that can detect a problem before it affects your power supply or optimizes itself based on near real-time demand.

People don't realize how important EnergyIP is to New York City. - Gerald Nyante, System Specialist, AMI Implementation Team, Con Edison 

Meter by meter: empowering consumers.

Con Edison manages an impressive 5.3 million active electric and gas meters - each serving as an interface to an individual household. Our advanced Gridscale X Meter Data Management (formerly known as EnergyIP MDM) technology allows Con Edison to provide its users with the most up-to-date information, delivered in 5- and 15-minute intervals, while monitoring the grid in near real time. This not only helps Con Edison maintain grid stability and distribute energy more efficiently, but it’s also transforming how customers track their electricity usage – leading to lower bills and environmental benefits for everyone. 

Detecting problems before they occur.

In complex energy grids like New York's, system failures, damage to the grid or leaks can have catastrophic consequences. One advantage of the seamless integration of information technology and the physical grid is that leaks in the gas network, for example, can be found and repaired much more quickly. Con Edison uses a data-driven solution that trains artificial intelligence to detect irregularities in the energy distribution grid much faster than conventional methods. With this method, Con Edison is a true pioneer and will significantly improve energy security for its customers. For Con Edison, they think well beyond the confines of its energy grid. 

How to technology is also transforming manhole security.

New York City's supply and disposal grid includes 280,000 manholes – each posing potential risks to pedestrians. Gas leaks or electrical malfunctions can lead to dangerous manhole explosions, while water buildup during heavy rainfall can create slippery surfaces or hidden hazards. To prevent such dangers, Siemens Advanta recently supported Con Edison in launching a collaborative pilot program to enhance the safety of its underground distribution network. The goal was to reduce false positive alarms, improve safety, and cut costs. This initiative is a prime example of how far the integration of information technology and physical infrastructure can go – when you think as progressively as Con Edison. 

Key takeaways:

• Siemens Xcelerator portfolio (Gridscale X and Siemens Advanta’s IOT Implementation), ensures a secure and interoperable IT/OT convergence, allowing our systems to work together with minimal disruptions.
• For the end customers, this solution approach leads to fewer outages, faster repairs, and more cost-effective energy usage. 

• Data-driven systems, powered by AI, enhance grid safety and efficiency by detecting problems early, saving costs and reducing risks.