Agenda
| Tuesday, December 1st, 2026 | ||
| 8:30 a.m. – 9:05 a.m. | Opening Ceremony · Welcome & Opening Remarks · Sponsor Remarks · Keynote Address · Vote of Thanks, Housekeeping and Announcement | |
| 9:05 a.m. – 9:50 a.m. | Smart Utilities: Integrating ICT, GIS, AMI & SCADA | Moderator: Dr. Cletus Bertin, Executive Director, CARILEC |
| 9:50 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. | Networking Break & Tradeshow Visitation | |
| Block 1: Information Communications Technology | ||
| SESSION 1 10:20 am – 10:55 am
| Topic:PostgreSQL on the UP: the Unified Platform for Modern Utility Operations Abstract: In an era where electric utilities juggle spatial analytics, AI-driven predictions, and automated workflows across disparate systems, PostgreSQL emerges as the single-source solution that eliminates data silos and reduces complexity. This presentation demonstrates how PostgreSQL, the worlds most advanced database, can seamlessly handle your GIS mapping, AI/ML workloads, and operational automation—transforming how utilities manage everything from grid optimization to predictive maintenance. | Speaker: Rhys Stewart, Auchindown
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| SESSION 2 10:55 am – 11:30 am
| Topic: Understanding NERC CIP: Ensuring and Compliance in the Electric Sector Abstract: This presentation provides an introduction to NERC CIP standards, explains the compliance and regulatory framework, and highlights key challenges and best practices for meeting requirements and includes insights into the future direction of NERC CIP to help utilities stay ahead of evolving standards.
| Speaker: Eddy Del Valle, NextEra Energy
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| Block 2: Geographic Information System | ||
| SESSION 3 11:30 am – 12:05 pm
| Topic: Leveraging GIS Data to Expedite FLISR and OMS Deployment Abstract: The quality and availability of GIS data often define the speed and success of modern distribution automation projects. This session explores how utilities can leverage existing GIS investments to streamline the implementation of Fault Location, Isolation & Service Restoration (FLISR) and Outage Management Systems (OMS). We will examine proven methodologies for preparing and validating network models, strategies to bridge GIS with AMI and SCADA data, and lessons learned from utilities that accelerated deployment timelines. Attendees will gain practical insights into how stronger GIS foundations lead to faster, more reliable OMS and FLISR rollouts—reducing costs while improving grid resilience. | Speaker: Benjamin Perez, Survalent Technology Corporation
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| 12:05 p.m. – 12:25 p.m.
| Exhibitor Booth Visitation (Special giveaways to be won!) | |
| 12:25 p.m. – 1:25 p.m. | LUNCH | |
| 1:25 pm – 2:10 pm | FIRESIDE Chat by Aspentech | |
| SESSION 4 2:10 pm – 2:40 pm
| Topic: GIS in Disaster Management Abstract: Our presentation will showcase how JPS leveraged GIS technology to enhance disaster preparedness and response during major storm events. We’ll highlight the development and deployment of interactive disaster dashboards that provide real-time situational awareness, integrating data from multiple utility systems for informed decision-making. These dashboards have transformed how teams visualize network impacts, prioritize restoration efforts, and coordinate field operations during emergencies. Through this session, participants will gain insights into practical applications of GIS and data visualization in building resilient utility operations and improving communication. | Speaker: Dave Williams and Trevain Ashman, JPS
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| SESSION 5 2:40 p.m.- 3:15 p. m | Topic: From Field Data to Investment Plans: A Practical Approach to Asset Risk Forecasting: Abstract: Use GIS and condition projections to automate asset risk modeling and investment planning | Speaker: Angel Torres, VisualK |
| 3:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. | Networking Break & Tradeshow Visitation | |
| SESSION 6 3:45 p.m. – 4:20- p.m. | Topic: One Digital Grid Platform: Transforming Complexity into Clarity Abstract: The speech will address the pressing challenges utilities face today—rising energy demand, integration of renewables, grid reliability, and the complexity of managing distributed energy resources. It will introduce the concept of Electricity 4.0, the convergence of electrical infrastructure and digital technologies, enabling smarter, more sustainable, and resilient grids. The focus will be on how the One Digital Grid Platform simplifies this complexity, providing utilities with clarity through advanced analytics, real-time monitoring, and interoperable solutions that drive efficiency and accelerate the energy transition. | Speaker: Fabrizzio Chinchilla Brenes, Head Of Sales Digital Grid, Schneider Electric
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| Block 3: Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition | ||
| SESSION 7 4:20 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. | Topic: Accurate fault location in LV underground networks (This topic is pending a change in the title) Abstract: Distribution companies typically rely on two methods of understanding the last mile of their network. Use of maximum demand indicators (mechanical meters which are notoriously inaccurate and provide only very limited info at best) Modelling of network – means estimating consumer usage Both are limited and so the DNO will build in significant safety margins – means that not getting the most out of their assets and spending money on replacing and reinforcement without real knowledge of how necessary it is. Low carbon technologies are further complicating – micro-generation affecting voltage and electric vehicles affecting load as examples. | Speaker: Nick Primavesi, Lucy Electric Ltd
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| Wednesday, December 2nd, 2026 | ||
| 8:30 am – 9:15 am | FIRESIDE CHAT SPATIAL INNOVATION | |
| BLOCK 4: Advanced Metering Infrastructure | ||
| SESSION 8 9:15 a.m. – 9:50 a.m. | Topic: NV GEBE’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project Abstract: The presentation details NV GEBE’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project on Saint Maarten, initiated after Hurricane Irma destroyed their previous smart metering system in 2017. Key Points: Challenges & Motivation: The hurricane wiped out RF communication towers, leading to millions in replacement costs. Vision for AMI: NV GEBE sought a more resilient system using fiber optics instead of RF, integrating electricity, water, and street lighting into one management system. Smart Metering Features: * Remote meter reading and disconnection. * Power limitation for unpaid bills. * Prepaid and postpaid options in the same meter. * Theft prevention through tamper detection and energy balancing. * Two-way communication using PLC and RF LoRa. Solution Implementation: NV GEBE partnered with Unique Technology to deploy smart meters, concentrators, and software for efficient monitoring and billing. Results & Success: By 2024, NV GEBE recovered $2.5M in unpaid bills within six days using remote power limitation, with restoration in minutes after payments. The project showcases a robust, cost-efficient, and secure AMI system that enhances revenue recovery, reduces operational costs, and improves service reliability. | Speaker: Patrick Drijvers, NV GEBE |
| 9:50 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. | Networking Break & Tradeshow Visitation | |
| SESSION 9 10:20 a.m. – 10:55 a.m. | Topic: Predictive monitoring and fault location in LV/MV networks Abstract: Utilities have a legal obligation to provide consumers with energy within certain parameters (for example voltage limits) – LV monitoring provides early warning of problems before customer complaints There are two types of losses: – Technical – monitoring on LV can detect phase imbalance, excess voltage etc – Non-technical – load profile monitoring and comparison with smart meter data Faults – most utilities get fined when customers are disconnected, at present rely on customers telling them there are faults, ability to be able to predict where faults are likely to happen, detecting when they do happen and providing information that will allow the fault to be accurately located. | Speaker: Nick Primavesi, Lucy Electric Ltd
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| BLOCK 5 – CASE STUDIES | ||
| SESSION 10 10:55 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Topic: Merging Data Silos for Automated Analysis Abstract: Over the past five years, integration development has truly expanded to encompass key areas within the organization. The link between our CIS, GIS and AMI systems is becoming even more important as we focus on data integrity and streamlining operations to ensure continued grid reliability and stability. The shift from manual logbooks to an electronic log system integrated with our MWFM and CIS systems has laid a solid foundation for mining operational data and analysis. The constant expansion of the renewable sector means that our analytical model must also expand to include more descriptive, predictive and prescriptive analytics. | Speaker: Cori King, Richelle Bowen & David Gibson, Barbados Light & Power Company Ltd/Qualliant Solutions
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| SESSION 11 11:30 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. | Topic: Abstract: | Speaker |
| 12:05 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Exhibitor Booth Visitation (Special giveaways to be won!) | |
| 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. | LUNCH | |
| 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Roundtable Sessions
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| SESSION 12 3:00 p.m. – 3:10 p.m. | Conference Wrap-up & Closing Remarks | |
| 3:15 p.m. – 6:15 p.m | TOUR TO JPS CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE Site Visit to JPS Centre of Excellence Topic: Grid Automation and Management in Action
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