AVANGRID’s Information Technology group received the 2019 SAP Next-Gen Innovator Award at the SAPPHIRE in Orlando, Florida on May 7, 2019. The SAP Awards celebrates the achievements of forward-thinking companies and individuals from around the world who are using SAP.

AVANGRID was recognized for its work to innovate and develop the Safer and Reliable Distribution Network with Intelligent Pipeline Solution. This solution provides real-time information to enhance the company’s ability to monitor, maintain, and operate our gas infrastructure systems, which ultimately means a more secure system with fewer interruptions for customers.

“This is another excellent example of how IT and business collaboration drives AVANGRID’s digital transformation,” said Sergio Merchan Gonzalez, Chief Information Officer of AVANGRID.

“This is unique because it is the first time the company is receiving this kind of award. It shows our commitment to drive innovation at AVANGRID in order to be the utility of the future,” stated Mansur Ali Mohammed, Senior Manager of AVANGRID IT Innovation.

This new technology involves installing bar-coded devices on the underground pipes. Field personnel with hand-held devices use a special app that tracks GPS and the bar codes to capture features, including exact location, material specifications and installer information, which can then be used for day-to-day purposes, such as field location of material for maintenance or safety and Call Before You Dig, using augmented reality.

AVANGRID collaborated with Wipro, a leading global information technology, and consulting company to execute this solution. The Safer and Reliable Distribution Network with Intelligent Pipeline Solution is in the pilot stage and implementation will begin this year.

This latest recognition is the second time in the last two years AVANGRID has been honored by SAP. In October 2018, the Safer and Reliable Distribution Network with Intelligent Pipeline Solution won the SAP Excellence in Operations award at the 11th Annual SAP’s Excellence in Utilities Conference, held in San Antonio, Texas. This year, the Safer and Reliable Distribution Network with Intelligent Pipeline Solution received the SAP Next-Gen Innovator Award. 

More information about the Global 2019 SAP Next-Gen Innovator Award and AVANGRID’s award-winning program is available via the video below: