Scandinavian utilities join IFS in developing new solution

Dubbed ENKAM (Energikameratene), it has been developed with three of Scandinavia’s largest utility companies: Statnett, Hafslund and Energiselskapet Buskerud. They say the new solution for the utilities sector features increased use of mobile technology, as well as improved document management capabilities and other industry-specific functionality. Sweden, Finland and Denmark have shared a common Nordic power exchange (NordPool) for several years – meaning that users can choose a power supplier based on price. As a result, the focus has shifted from traditional power generation, transmission and distribution to market-orientation and CRM (customer relationship management). Says Dag Akselsen, director of projects & development at Hafslund: “We have been working very closely to develop an application that meets business needs in an industry that has changed considerably over recent years. IFS has proven to be responsive and flexible to these changes. This is the most important reason why we have participated in the programme and invested in the new industry solution.” And he adds: “As a business, Hafslund is heavily dependent on projects. Maintenance routines, repairs and the construction of new infrastructure are all project-centric. The range of components available in IFS Applications supports this way of working, and allows us to integrate quickly and easily with contractors, suppliers and customers.”