PPL Electric engineers help future-proof electric grid with innovative new project
For PPL Electric Utilities Engineers Miguel Mendoza, Chris Jarrah, Amr El Hakim and their teams, future-proofing the electric grid goes well beyond new technology or software. It means combining innovative thinking, a problem-solving outlook and always keeping the real-world impact in mind, which for them means that when the switch is flipped, the power goes on.
PPL Electric engineers are constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation to modernize the grid, enhance reliability and ensure a more secure and efficient electric system for our customers. As we celebrate National Engineers Week, we’re spotlighting a groundbreaking project that demonstrates the critical role engineers play in shaping the future of energy: Intelligent Electronic Device (IED) Management.
IEDs are important components within substations that enable automation, real-time monitoring and remote operations that keep our electric grid running smoothly. However, as technology evolves, it’s critical to have an efficient and scalable system to remotely manage, configure and update these devices. That’s where IED Management comes in.
This innovative project — being worked on by Mendoza, Jarrah, El Hakim and their teams — focuses on replacing outdated substation technology with a next-generation IED Management solution. The goal? To enhance system security, improve operational efficiency and future-proof our grid infrastructure. The impact of this project extends beyond just technology upgrades. It also directly benefits our customers by improving reliability, reducing outages and lowering operational costs. With real-time remote troubleshooting and automated updates, PPL Electric can respond to issues faster and with fewer onsite visits. Additionally, these updates make our grid more resilient, ensuring a safer and more secure electric system.
“This project revolutionizes the way we manage and secure our substations,” Jarrah said. “By automating critical tasks, we’re enhancing safety and boosting efficiency. It’s a significant step toward a more modern, resilient electric grid as we continue to build the utility of the future.”
For engineers like Miguel, this project represents the perfect blend of innovation, problem-solving and real-world impact. IED Management is more than just upgrading technology — it’s about securing the future of our electric grid and making a tangible difference for the communities we serve.
“This project is exciting because it combines innovation with practical engineering solutions to modernize the grid,” Mendoza said. “It’s fulfilling to contribute to something that directly enhances reliability and efficiency for our customers.”
At PPL Electric, we know that the future of energy depends on the brilliant minds of our engineers. Projects like IED Management showcase how engineering connects cutting-edge technology with real-world applications, solving challenges in security, compliance and operational efficiency. For those considering a career in engineering, this work is an example of how you can be at the forefront of powering the future. We’re proud to celebrate our engineers, whose dedication, expertise and innovation drive our mission forward every day.
Do you want to engineer the utility of the future? PPL Electric offers a variety of exciting careers in engineering. Explore current opportunities and join an exceptionally brilliant team by visiting pplweb.com/careers.