Dayton Power & Light to build Smart Operations Center in Ohio

Signaling a push toward innovative energy options, the Dayton Power & Light Company (DP&L), a subsidiary of The AES Corporation, announced plans to build a Smart Operations Center in Ohio this week.

“The transition to a cleaner, more efficient energy future depends in large part on the adoption of digital technology,” Bernerd Da Santos, AES executive vice president and COO, said. “The new AES Smart Center will tap into the power of data and digital platforms, allowing us to monitor, remotely operate and improve the management of our power generation operations, including solar, wind, hydro, thermal and energy storage facilities across the United States and globally from one central location. This digital approach will lead the way to a greener, more sustainable future for the businesses and communities we serve.”

The Smart Center will tap data to increase efficiency in its electric operations and begin consolidating its Global Performance Monitoring and Analytics Center (PMAC) and Remote Operations and Control Center (ROCC) for AES’ U.S.-based generation assets. That integration will better position the company to address the industry’s increasing reliance on data and smart grid technologies.

The facility will also have the added benefit of assisting modern, regional workforce development, including both advanced technology engineers and data scientists.

“Our selection of Dayton as the location of our first US-based smart operations center demonstrates our commitment to the region today and our belief in a strong pool of local innovators who will help us shape tomorrow while contributing to the state’s economic growth,” Lisa Krueger, AES U.S. strategic business unit president, said.