Mobile Data Technology at Florida Power Corporation

Mobile Data Technology and Integration Issues
This paper explores mobile technology and some of the issues involved in integrating mobile applications towards improving an electric distribution system's overall reliability and service delivery. Issues include the technology impact on existing work practices. A case study of Florida Power Corporation summarizes the steps taken and the lessons learned in the successful implementation of mobile technology and its resulting measurable benefits, including better and more efficient field data capture, accurate and current positional information, and reduced communication bandwidth demands. FPC field crews and dispatchers get real-time updates of work status and work completed information.

FPC the Company
FPC is the second largest investor-owned electric utility in Florida. Founded in 1899, the company serves approximately 1.4 million customers in central and north Florida. Its service area encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles, including the cities of St. Petersburg and Clearwater, as well as the rapidly growing area of central Florida surrounding Orlando.

Over the past five years the average number of new customers has grown by 2 percent annually - nearly twice the national average. In 1999, 27,000 new customers were added to the network.

Approximately 4.5 million people live within the company's service area, which covers 32 of the state's 67 counties.