Nationwide power outage data system initiated by Alfred University’s Simmins
A system that facilitates the sharing of power outage data among utility companies—so that they can better respond to interruptions and restore power—was initiated by John Simmins ’84, PhD ’90, Alfred University alumnus and executive director of the University’s Center for Advanced Ceramic Technology.
The Outage Data Initiative Nationwide (ODIN) program is led by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Electricity. ODIN is a collaborative effort among electric service providers aimed at facilitating interoperability and sharing comprehensive power outage data. By adhering to standardized protocols, developed by Simmins and his team at EPRI and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, ODIN enhances restoration efforts, improves decision support, and fosters resilience in the electric grid.
Simmins, who earned bachelor’s and doctoral degrees in ceramic engineering from Alfred University, was instrumental in the early-stage development of the ODIN initiative while he was with the Electrical Power Research Institute (EPRI) from 2009-19. On Tuesday, April 23, ORNL hosted a podcast to discuss the progress of the program, highlighting the seamless integration of outage data from Southern California Edison into the ODIN system. The move marks a significant milestone in the initiative's expansion.
“What started as my EPRI project with six utilities has now blossomed into Outage Data Initiative Nationwide, encompassing over 125 utilities across the nation,” Simmins commented during the podcast. ODIN now stands as a beacon of collaboration, offering five- to 15-minute updates of outage data integrated from coast to coast.
At DistribuTECH 2015, Simmins and Oracle demonstrated how outage data can be shared in real time with vendors across the floor. DistribuTECH is the world’s largest and most comprehensive transmission and distribution event, serving the utility industry. “This is critical to federal departments like FEMA and Department of Homeland Security.” said Simmins. “The data can also be used to quickly and efficiently apply the proper resources during a large-scale outage.”
Key goals of ODIN include supporting standardized outage data implementation, engaging stakeholders across the spectrum, and streamlining data sharing processes to enhance restoration efforts. Championed by the Department of Energy Office of Electricity's Advanced Grid Research and stewarded by ORNL, ODIN embodies a transformative vision for the electric sector.
The benefits of ODIN are far-reaching, creating a universal translator for outage data that drives improved decision support and provides a common operating picture for stakeholders. By offering near real-time updates to emergency managers, critical infrastructure partners, neighboring utilities, and smart cities, ODIN reduces reliance on fragmented outage maps and minimizes unnecessary inquiries to utilities.
Notably, ODIN was the cornerstone of the White House's call for real-time, standardized, and transparent power outage data on November 22, 2022. The initiative aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's broader goals of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and fostering a reliable, equitable energy system.
As ODIN continues to expand its reach and impact, ORNL remains dedicated to driving innovation and collaboration in the realm of power outage data integration.
About Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
ORNL is the largest science and energy national laboratory in the United States Department of Energy system. ORNL's mission is to deliver scientific discoveries and technical breakthroughs that accelerate the development and deployment of solutions in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, national security, and environmental stewardship.
About the Outage Data Initiative Nationwide (ODIN)
ODIN is a collaborative effort among electric service providers aimed at facilitating interoperability and sharing comprehensive power outage data. By adhering to standardized protocols and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, ODIN enhances restoration efforts, improves decision support, and fosters resilience in the electric grid.
About the Department of Energy Office of Electricity
The Department of Energy Office of Electricity (OE) leads efforts to ensure a resilient, reliable, and secure energy infrastructure in the United States. Through research, development, and partnerships, OE works to advance grid modernization, promote energy efficiency, and address emerging challenges in the energy sector.