Introduction

For power utilities, managing a vast and complex array of assets – from generation plants and transmission lines to distribution networks and smart grid components – is a monumental task. The longevity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of these assets directly impact service delivery, financial performance, and regulatory compliance. Strategic Asset Management (SAM) provides a holistic and systematic approach to optimizing the acquisition, utilization, maintenance, and disposal of these critical assets throughout their lifecycle. Moving beyond reactive maintenance, SAM integrates engineering, financial, and operational considerations to make informed decisions that maximize asset value, minimize risks, and ensure sustainable service provision. It is a proactive discipline that directly addresses the challenges of aging infrastructure, capital expenditure optimization, and the integration of new technologies. Without a robust framework for Strategic Asset Management in Power Utilities, organizations risk inefficient capital allocation, increased operational failures, escalating costs, and a diminished ability to meet the evolving demands of a modern energy system, underscoring the vital need for specialized expertise in this crucial domain. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Strategic Asset Management in Power Utilities.

This training course is meticulously designed to empower power utility executives, asset managers, engineers (electrical, mechanical, civil), finance professionals, planning managers, and operations & maintenance personnel with the theoretical understanding and practical insights necessary to effectively implement and lead Strategic Asset Management initiatives within Power Utilities. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of asset lifecycle planning, risk-based maintenance strategies, performance monitoring, investment optimization, and the role of digital transformation in asset management. The course will delve into topics such as ISO 55000 standards, asset performance modeling, capital expenditure (CAPEX) vs. operational expenditure (OPEX) optimization, integrating climate resilience into asset strategies, leveraging predictive analytics and IoT for asset health, and developing a compelling business case for asset management programs. By mastering the principles and practical application of Strategic Asset Management in Power Utilities, participants will be prepared to enhance asset reliability, reduce lifecycle costs, improve regulatory compliance, and contribute significantly to the long-term sustainability and profitability of their organizations.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Power Utility Executives and Senior Leaders
• Asset Managers (Generation, Transmission, Distribution)
• Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil Engineers (Utilities)
• Operations & Maintenance Managers
• Financial Analysts and Capital Planners (Utilities)
• Risk Management Professionals (Utilities)
• Planning and Strategy Managers
• Reliability Engineers
• Consultants in Utility Management
• Regulatory Affairs Specialists

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental principles and benefits of Strategic Asset Management (SAM) in power utilities.
• Learn about the asset lifecycle stages and their implications for management.
• Acquire skills in applying risk-based approaches to asset investment and maintenance decisions.
• Comprehend techniques for optimizing asset performance and reliability.
• Explore strategies for managing capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) effectively.
• Understand the role of data, analytics, and digital tools in modern asset management.
• Gain insights into developing asset management policies and strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Develop a practical understanding of ISO 55000 standards for asset management systems.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Strategic Asset Management in Power Utilities

• Definition and scope of Strategic Asset Management (SAM).
• Why SAM is critical for power utilities in the current landscape (aging infrastructure, renewables, regulations).
• The difference between SAM and traditional maintenance.
• Key benefits of implementing SAM (financial, operational, risk reduction).
• Overview of asset lifecycle stages: Plan, Acquire, Operate, Maintain, Dispose.

Module 2: Asset Management Frameworks and Standards (ISO 55000)

• Introduction to the ISO 55000 series of standards (ISO 55000, 55001, 55002).
• Understanding the core elements of an asset management system.
• Relationship between organizational objectives and asset management objectives.
• Establishing an asset management policy and strategy.
• Steps towards ISO 55001 certification (overview).

Module 3: Risk-Based Asset Management

• Identifying and assessing risks associated with power utility assets (failure, safety, environmental, financial).
• Methodologies for risk analysis (qualitative, quantitative).
• Developing risk mitigation strategies for critical assets.
• Incorporating climate resilience into asset risk assessments.
• Prioritizing investments based on risk and criticality.

Module 4: Asset Performance Management and Optimization

• Defining asset performance metrics and KPIs (e.g., SAIDI, SAIFI, MAIFI, EFOR).
• Condition monitoring techniques for electrical assets (transformers, circuit breakers, cables).
• Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) and its application.
• Predictive maintenance strategies leveraging analytics and IoT.
• Optimizing asset utilization and efficiency.

Module 5: Asset Investment Planning and Life Cycle Costing

• Principles of life cycle costing (LCC) for power utility assets.
• Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) vs. Operational Expenditure (OPEX) optimization.
• Developing robust asset investment plans.
• Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis for asset investments.
• Justifying asset replacement vs. refurbishment decisions.

Module 6: Data, Digitalization, and Asset Management Systems

• Role of data in effective asset management.
• Asset Information Management Systems (AIMS) and Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software.
• Leveraging IoT sensors, SCADA data, and smart grid technologies for asset health.
• Predictive analytics and machine learning for fault prediction and remaining useful life (RUL).
• Data governance and quality for asset management.

Module 7: Maintenance Strategy and Execution

• Types of maintenance: reactive, preventive, predictive, proactive.
• Developing optimal maintenance strategies for different asset types.
• Work order management and scheduling.
• Spare parts management and inventory optimization.
• Contract management for maintenance services.

Module 8: Organizational Culture, Competence, and Continuous Improvement

• Building an asset management-focused organizational culture.
• Developing competence and training for asset management teams.
• Stakeholder engagement and communication in SAM implementation.
• Performance review, audit, and continuous improvement cycles for the AMS.
• Leadership's role in championing Strategic Asset Management.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.