CARILEC proudly introduces the Utility Automation and Innovation Symposium, a dynamic and future-forward event replacing the former GIS Symposium. This inaugural Utility Automation and Innovation Symposium will be hosted from December 1 -2, 2025, in Jamaica, under the theme “Smart Utilities: Integrating ICT, SCADA, GIS and AMI”.
This symposium is designed to address the rapidly evolving needs of the Caribbean energy sector through the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI).
In a time defined by swift technological advancement, utilities are challenged to modernize every aspect of their operations to ensure efficiency, innovation, and the highest service standards. This symposium will bring together utility professionals, innovators, solution providers, and stakeholders for robust discussions and practical demonstrations on the digital transformation of utility systems.
The role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is now more important than ever with the digitalization of energy systems and the versatility of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve cybersecurity and ensure the resilience of both hardware and software for utility operations. Applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the power industry include digital substations, centralized and virtualized protection and control and sensor-less system fault prediction. SCADA systems continue to be a crucial component of utility functionality, due to their ease and speed of collecting essential data. Through monitoring and controlling, SCADA systems help to optimize utility operations and can also be used for troubleshooting purposes, as maintenance is critical to ensuring the uninterrupted flow of grid operation and stability.
GIS continues to prove itself as a pivotal tool in the planning, execution, and management of energy projects and electric utility infrastructure, all while contributing to greater reliability and efficiency for small island operating utilities. Likewise, Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) is becoming integral to utility operational efficiency. AMI enhances the implementation of demand response programs, helping to balance load and prevent outages. AMI systems can automatically detect and report outages to improve service reliability. Utilities can also remotely connect or disconnect using AMI and monitor energy usage patterns and irregularities linked to theft detection. Furthermore, distribution generation is enabled.
Why Attend?
As energy systems become increasingly digitalized, ICT emerges as a critical enabler of automation, intelligence, and security. From AI-powered cybersecurity to sensor-less fault prediction and digital substations, utilities must harness the power of intelligent systems to remain resilient and forward-looking.
Attendees will explore:
- The integration of AI in power systems, including centralized and virtualized control.
- The evolving role of SCADA in optimizing performance and enabling proactive maintenance.
- The critical importance of GIS for small island utilities, improving infrastructure planning and project execution.
- The transformative potential of AMI in outage detection, theft prevention, load balancing, and demand response programs.
Symposium Objectives
- To provide a platform for stakeholders in the fields of ICT, GIS, SCADA and AMI to discuss and engage on matters related to these areas with the intent to
- Seek and share best practices, challenges and solutions to enhance the functionality and operations of utilities and energy industries within the region
- To explore new developments in the areas of ICT and identify avenues for piloting or updating implementation within utilities as deemed necessary
- To shed light on protocols and policies in ICT where utilities may require further strengthening and resilience of their associated systems.
Who Should Attend?
- Utility Engineers and ICT Specialists
- SCADA and GIS Analysts
- Metering and AMI Professionals
- Utility Managers and Executives
- Regulatory Bodies and Government Agencies
- Technology Providers and Innovators
CARILEC’s 2025 Utility Automation and Innovation Symposium will set the tone for the future of electric utilities in the region. Through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and innovation, we will advance toward more resilient, efficient, and intelligent energy systems across the Caribbean.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the Caribbean’s premier platform for utility automation and innovation.
