NORTHBROOK, III., Feb. 4, 2003 -- AMRA kicks off its 2003 calendar of events, which focus on topics relevant to today's utility marketplace, with its Western Regional Seminar.
Set for March 3l-April in Sacramento, Calif., the event will include a discussion on emerging issues related to the California energy market and will feature courses presented by the most influential thought-leaders in the AMR environment.
These intensive, two-day seminars are designed to encourage utility, regulatory and municipal representatives to network, ask questions and develop specific metering strategies. Delegates can select between five half-day AMRA Certificate Courses:
Full Scale AMR Deployments -- Selecting the Technology That Matches Your AMR Business Strategy
Presented by Carolyn Kinsman of Automated Communication Links Inc.
Covers technology fundamentals, then focuses on some of the more critical characteristics integral to each technology option. The instructor delves into system strengths and weakness that generally become known only after systems are purchased and in operation.
Telecommunications Solutions: Fundamentals, Building Blocks and Applications
Presented by Ron Chebra and Dick Preston of Comverge Technologies Inc.
Designed for non-engineers, explains numerous communications technology fundamentals and building blocks, and addresses some of the key attributes to consider when making communications technology decisions.
A Guide to Creating a Successful AMR Business Case
Presented by Michael Wiebe and Gary Fauth, Ph.D., MWConsulting Inc.; andJohn Yanek, PPL Electric Utilities
Reflects knowledge gained from successful AMR strategies developed by several North American utilities. Instructors and guest speakers from utilities that use AMR will discuss different types of business models, how to avoid pitfalls in model creation and numerous elements that business models should include. Attendees will learn how to show upper-level utility management, boards and other shareholders how AMR advances corporate strategies.
C&I AMR Strategies - Just the Facts
Presented by Carolyn Kinsman, Automated Communication Links Inc.
As deregulation, competition and energy shortages continue to play a key role in utility operations and bottom line issues, more and more utility staff are focusing on energy management. This course provides the end-to-end information necessary for utility and energy service providers to make informed hardware and telecommunications system selections.
Project Management - Key to Success in AMR
Presented by Don Schlenger, Ph.D., Cognyst Consulting LLC
Good project management is critical at every stage of an AMR project: exploration, justification, planning, procurement, trials, installation and business process redesign. AMR is a high-profile project that affects many areas of the utility; teams of representatives from different departments usually are involved in each stage. This course will provide project managers with the tools critical to AMR project success.
Special Keynote Address
And in addition to planned AMRA Certificate Courses, Mike Messenger of the California Energy Commission will discuss demand-response initiatives and other emerging issues in the California electricity market during a working lunch on Tuesday, April 1.
Complete details and registration for the AMRA Western Regional are available online at http://www.amra-intl.org/regionals/index.htm.
About AMRA
AMRA is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the application and advancement of enhanced customer service and resource-management technologies. AMRA supports members through accurate and balanced educational forums, identification of new technologies and trends, and common standards that facilitate the link between the business needs of its members and the technology.
AMRA and its European sister organization, e-amra.com, provide unbiased research and news about AMR and related technologies. Benefits include publications, market research and educational forums designed to help members review all technology options, select the best equipment for their specific needs and develop business cases that incorporate the full potential of advanced metering systems.
