Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU) is using digital tools to gain greater visibility into its network and increase system resiliency.
With over 30 miles of shoreline, Tacoma is vulnerable to rising sea levels, increasing periods of extreme heat, and more frequent heavy rainfall. The utility has armed water operators with rich data from Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) to enable rapid storm recovery.
The network of smart meters and sensors delivers 6.5 million registered reads daily.
Building on the successful implementation of AMI across its water network, TPU has since deployed the technology across its power department. Access to integrated advanced analytics has proved pivotal in reducing outage response times during extreme weather events.
After a violent storm left thousands without power, TPU restored service within hours.
“With the goal to install 300,000 advanced meters across the power and water sectors by the end of 2024, TPU knows this technology improvement will be a benefit for both our customers and the utility,” - Sally Mohr, AMI Program Delivery Director at Tacoma Public Utilities.
TPU's digital transformation did not happen overnight. The successful deployment of its AMI project began with a pilot program that evolved through a thoughtful and strategic approach, ultimately enhancing the community's resilience.
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AMI program provides real-time data for more than 300,000 water and power customers -
Reduced power outage response times by 15-20 minutes -
Targeting 300,000 advanced meters across water and power networks by the end of 2024
