Today’s electric utility grid continues to evolve. With the growth of distributed energy resources (DERs), the changing role of the customer, two-way power flows, and more, the grid needs a secure, robust network — one that is smart, secure, and adaptive by design.
Grid automation is at the heart of this evolution. By moving intelligence to the edge — closer to grid equipment, sensors, and DERs — utilities can automate operations in real time and build the foundation for long-term grid modernization.
Security has to include all phases of the utility network, from securing edge devices and cellular interfaces to data transmission and core management security. And it must do all of this across a utility’s mobile applications, fixed applications, and private networks, providing for a truly connected utility.
This session focuses on how utilities can build a flexible, scalable foundation that supports both today’s demands and tomorrow’s innovations — from SGP.32 to AI-driven load forecasting — without requiring costly overhauls.
Key Discussion Topics
Where grid automation is delivering real-time visibility and operational efficiency today
How to secure the full utility network — from edge devices to core systems
Strategies for managing DER growth and increasing two-way power flows
What it takes to build a scalable, future-ready network foundation
Lessons learned from utilities modernizing without disrupting existing operations
Panelists:
Aarin Buskirk, Consulting Engineer, Palo Alto Networks
Christopher Baulckim, Senior Manager, Pre-sales Engineering, Semtech
Jeff Ogden, Manager of Telecommunications Engineering, Tampa Electric
