Building a Best in Class UVM Program?

In the aftermath of the August 14th 2003 Northeast Blackout, FERC asked Enporion's partner - now called "Novembri Consulting" - to develop a list of Best Management Practices (BMP's) for Transmission UVM programs. In order to satisfy this request, a panel of industry experts was convened to come up with a comprehensive list of attributes and program elements that would indicate a best-in-class UVM program. The full text of this list can be downloaded here.

As it turned out, the vast majority of BMP’s identified by the panel are fully satisfied with the implementation of eVMS. Here are several of the verbatim BMP’s that can be supported and achieved with eVMS:

Understanding the Workload

Workload projections, planning, budgeting, and scheduling should be based on an accurate understanding of the existing and likely future vegetation under and adjacent to existing transmission lines.

Funding

Consistent funding should be based on a clear understanding of the required work, and not be solely based on historic budgets. Funding should be based on an accurate understanding of workload and local knowledge of the type, cost, and frequency of required work. This should also include the ability to increase or reduce expenses (in a timely manner) in response to unpredictable events. For example, this would include the ability to adjust funding based on the unexpected impacts of drought and above normal precipitation, or widespread outbreaks of tree pathogens or pests.

Scheduling UVM Work

Scheduling should be based on an updated and ongoing analysis of the workload and current conditions. For example, both excessive precipitation and drought can significantly influence vegetative growth and resulting workloads. Schedules should be flexible enough to address these and other variables such as customer- and line-patrol-initiated work. The intent of scheduling is to manage the vegetation prior to it becoming a threat to service reliability.

Wire Zone Border Zone Concepts and Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM)

All transmission UVM work should be identified, scheduled, completed and maintained consistent with Wire Zone Border Zone objectives and industry accepted protocols. Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) is the most commonly referred to, and used, protocol for managing transmission rights-of-way. IVM is generally defined as the practice of promoting desirable, stable, low-growing plant communities that will resist invasion by tall growing tree species through the use of appropriate and environmentally sound control methods. These methods can include a combination of chemical, biological, cultural, and/or mechanical treatments.

Reclaiming ROWs

Transmission UVM programs should identify all sections of line that are not currently managed to the full extent of easement rights, the Wire Zone Border Zone method or with other compatible land use. A plan should be developed that methodically works toward the goal of putting all ROWs under this or other compatible method of routine management.

Inspections of Vegetation Conditions

Field inspections of vegetation conditions should occur on a frequent basis, and the schedule should be based on anticipated growth. Aerial patrols should be complemented and calibrated by routinely scheduled ground patrols.

Clearly Defined, Communicated and Measured Objectives and Milestones

Utilities should have a formal management plan outlining UVM practices, objectives, and approved procedures. The plan should also include workload-related references and projections. The utility shall have a documented schedule and appropriate measures to ensure completion of required work. The management plan will require periodic revisions.

Quality Assurance Procedures

Utilities should have a quality assurance program, and a documented procedure for ensuring that work is completed per specifications and industry standards. In addition, there should be ongoing efforts and protocols to identify and correct quality problems and issues.

Work Management Measurement

Utilities should have a system(s) and procedures capable of managing work identification, assignments, and the job status for required UVM work. This should include the ability to document and track historic work at any given location.