GE Vernova, Systems with Intelligence to Develop Substation Monitoring Solutions

GE Vernova and SWI signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop advanced substation monitoring solutions—the collaboration will integrate technologies such as gas sensing, busing monitoring, infrared thermography, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML). The partnership’s goal is to improve grid asset management by combining SWI’s infrared thermography and touchless monitoring systems with GE Vernova’s Grid Automation solutions.

"Today’s asset managers are flooded with data from a myriad of sensing devices provided by various vendors,” said Graham McGuigan, Product Line Leader for Monitoring & Diagnostics at GE Vernova. “This often leads to fragmented data silos, requiring multiple software tools to manage and analyze the data independently. Our collaboration with SWI is a step towards unifying these data streams into a more cohesive and intelligent monitoring system."

SWI and GE Vernova sign MoU; Image Credits: GE Vernova

Initially, SWI will integrate its fixed infrared sensors into GE Vernova’s DGA 900 Plus—a gas transformer monitoring system that detects early signs of issues to prevent transformer failures. This solution, to be commercially available in early 2025, will allow asset managers to combine infrared thermography with the DGA 900 Plus platform, which already includes dissolved gas analysis, bushing monitoring, and predictive monitoring capabilities.

"By combining different sensing techniques, we can create solutions that offer enhanced diagnostic intelligence while simplifying the user experience,” said Angelo Rizzo, President and CEO of SWI. “This collaboration is a significant move towards achieving that goal."

Advanced substation monitoring will converge monitoring and diagnostic intelligence to enhance asset management capabilities. The collaboration may streamline monitoring for utilities and transmission system operators, enabling proactive issue detection for a reliable, efficient, and stable power grid. GE Vernova and SWI plan to expand collaboration to include the integration of pan/tilt substation-level infrared sensors within the GridBeats Asset Vision substation monitoring solution.

GE Vernova’s Grid Portfolio

In February 2024, GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business launched a software portfolio called GridBeats, a collection of automation solutions designed to streamline grid digitalization and enhance grid resilience. The GridBeats portfolio provides digital solutions for the power grid to manage challenges such as aging infrastructure, inadequate control mechanisms, and a lack of fast, reliable communication.

The software enhances grid resilience and reliability with faster controls, AI/ML-based automation, and improved cybersecurity. GridBeats improves visibility across the grid, from larger areas to specific equipment, due to precise sensors and dependable communication networks. Software-defined automation allows for greater flexibility, boosted performance, and a sped-up shift toward sustainable energy.

In May, GE Vernova launched ThinkLabs AI, which is focused on developing technology to enhance grid planning. ThinkLabs AI is developing a software application utilizing intelligent automation and AI to improve grid planning operations. The software is in its early stage and will complement GE Vernova’s GridOS software portfolio—a platform of AI and Power Systems-based applications designed for reliable, secure, and flexible grid orchestration for utilities.

GE Vernova pre-seeded the startup with an early-stage investment, with an additional $5 million seed-stage investment from Powerhouse Ventures and Active Impact Investments. Other investors in the startup include Blackhorn Ventures, Amplify Capital, Mercuria Energy, and a national U.S. energy company. ThinkLabs AI will be privately owned by GE Vernova and the additional investors.