CARILEC invites dynamic and forward-thinking presenters to contribute to the dialogue at the inaugural Utility Automation and Innovation Symposium to be held at the from December 1 – 2, 2025, in Jamaica, under the theme “Smart Utilities: Integrating ICT, SCADA, GIS and AMI”.
We welcome presentation proposals that offer innovative insights, proven strategies, and emerging trends in the fields of engineering and procurement in the region’s energy sector. Recommendations for subjects have been listed below.
Presentation Topics
Topics of interest to the CARILEC Conference audience must incorporate the theme of the conference and focus on sub-topics listed below. Joint presentations are also welcomed.
Key Topics
Block 1: ICT, Cyber Security & Artificial Intelligence: Cybersecurity is essential to protect power grids from cyberattacks, unauthorized access, and operational disruptions. The modern electric grid relies on interconnected digital components such as smart meters, sensors, automated control systems, and cloud-based data platforms, all of which are potential targets for cyber threats.
Key ICT Topics
- Preventing Cyberattacks
- Ensuring Data Integrity
- Access Control and Authentication
- Incident Detection and Response
Artificial Intelligence: AI enhances grid efficiency by enabling predictive analytics, automation, and intelligent decision-making. AI-driven technologies help optimize energy distribution, detect faults, and enhance grid resilience.
Key AI Topics
- Predictive Maintenance
- Demand Forecasting
- Grid Automation & Self-Healing
- Energy Optimization
- Cybersecurity Enhancement
Block 2. GIS: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play a critical role in electric utility automation and innovation by enhancing efficiency, reliability and decision-making.
Key GIS Topics
- Asset Management and Mapping
- Grid Automation and Smart Grid Implementation – GIS integrated with SCADA system to automate grip operations
- Outage Management and Restoration
- Field Operations and Workforce Management
Block 3. SCADA: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) plays a vital role in electric utility automation and innovation by enabling real-time monitoring, control and optimization of the power system. SCADA enhances the efficiency, reliability, and safety of power grids, making it essential for modern smart grid implementations.
Key SCADA Topics
- Real-time Monitoring and Control
- Grid Automation and Smart Grid Integration
- Fault Detection, Isolation and Service Restoration
- Substation Automation
Block 4. AMI: Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is a key technology in electric utility automation and smart grid innovation. It provides real-time data on electricity consumption, enhances grid efficiency, improves customer engagement, and supports renewable energy integration.
Key AMI Topics
- Smart Metering and Real-Time Data Collection
- Demand Response and Load Management
- Outage Detection and Power Restoration
Utility Case Studies: Presentations on experiences and practices which are relevant to the Region, conference theme and sub-topics.
Presenters Guidelines
To foster dynamic knowledge exchange and meaningful engagement, the 2025 Utility Automation and Innovation Symposium will feature a range of presentation formats tailored to suit diverse content and audiences. From technical deep dive presentations to interactive panel discussions, fireside chats, and solution-focused case studies, presenters are encouraged to choose the format that best aligns with their topic and objectives. Each format is designed to promote collaboration, spark dialogue, and drive actionable outcomes across the region’s renewable energy landscape. Select the most relevant format when completing the application form.
Submissions should demonstrate the following:
- Will focus on the specified theme and topic recommendations.
- Will be of interest particularly to the target audience of the conference.
- Will present information that is theoretically sound and accurate.
- Will present new knowledge or experience, the substance of which has not been previously presented at a CARILEC conference (unless otherwise advised).
- Will not be commercial in nature and will not promote specific companies, products, or services
- Presentation Duration
Presenters will be required to select the appropriate duration for their presentation when submitting their application:
- Option 1 – Power Point slides, for an approximate 35–60-minute presentation/working session (inclusive of 15 minutes Q&A)
- Option 2 – Power Point slides, for an approximate 20 – 35 minutes presentation (inclusive of 5 – 10 minutes Q&A)
- Option 3 – Power Point slides, for an approximate 15–20-minute presentation (inclusive of 5 minutes Q & A)
Application Timelines
- Application forms must be submitted by June 30, 2025.
- Selected presenters will be informed by September 5, 2025.
- Subsequent to notification, a full presentation must be submitted by November 24, 2025, based on the selection committee’s allotted time for your presentation.
Selection Process
CARILEC has appointed a selection committee to determine the presentations to be delivered at its conferences. The number of presentations accepted for a conference depends on program size (the number of sessions), technical coverage (the topics to be covered), focused on the subtopics and the number and quality of presentations. The selection committee identifies the best contributions for the agenda.
Third-Party Interests/Permissions
All instructors and presenters must disclose any proprietary interest in products, instruments, devices, services, or materials mentioned during the session, event, or program. Additionally, they are required to identify any sources of compensation related to their presentation.
Speaker Compensation
Please note that CARILEC does not offer financial compensation for speakers at its Conferences. Participation as a presenter is considered a valuable opportunity to share expertise, gain visibility among key stakeholders in the regional energy sector, and contribute to the advancement of renewable energy and resilience across the Caribbean. We sincerely appreciate your willingness to share your knowledge and experience in support of this important mission.
