The utility sector is poised to invest over $7 billion annually on physical security by 2030 in the U.S. alone, with global spending reaching $17.8 billion. This spending will encompass millions of devices, including surveillance cameras, thermal imaging sensors, and intrusion detection technologies.
While these security devices are essential for safeguarding assets, they also hold untapped operational potential that often goes unnoticed. Taking it a step further than security, these technologies can significantly enhance operational efficiency and offer real-time situational awareness, delivering value far beyond their original intent.
For instance, cameras typically used to monitor perimeters can also monitor personnel safety. Thermal imaging sensors typically used for intrusion detection can also help detect failing transformers or other temperature changes, predicting equipment failure. Radar sensors that monitor for people or drones can also help streamline traffic flow and logistics within a plant.
By leveraging security devices as operational tools, utilities can optimize asset management, improve maintenance activities, and enhance compliance efforts. Deploying such devices as operational technology can be a cost-effective way to get more mileage out of security expenditures.
These benefits extend across the organization, leveraging multi-departmental budgets while delivering business solutions.
Consider the chief financial officer (CFO), for example: by using existing thermal imagers for predictive maintenance, it doesn’t just prevent failures; it avoids costly emergency repairs and improves the data used in capital data planning. For the chief operating officer (COO), integrated sensors drive tangible improvements like operational uptime and asset utilization. Human resources teams can gain a proactive tool for workforce safety because many security cameras can detect when employees are wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE) or be used for post-safety incident forensic analysis.
To truly unlock the strategic and operational value, organizations need to move beyond traditional departmental silos. Embracing a unified approach may require rethinking established workflows and fostering new levels of cross-departmental collaboration. It is a necessary disruption to unlock unprecedented operational intelligence and strategic advantages because when data is isolated, its potential for ROI remains untapped.
However, it can be achieved. A number of utilities have had success in deploying cameras and advanced sensors to address cooperative security and business functions, creating a win-win for cross-functional collaboration, breaking down data silos, and optimizing security expenditures.
When security technologies are integrated into a broader operational improvement strategy, they offer a comprehensive view of operations and deliver significant value across the entire organization.
