SEMi Q & A
Q&A with SCTE President/CEO Mark Dzuban
- Why is SCTE undertaking the Smart Energy Management Initiative?
For 40-plus years, SCTE has been serving the industry and helping to address the needs of its members. At Expo 2009, SCTE developed the SCTE Green Pavilion and General Session—a platform for promoting energy-efficient technologies and solutions across the cable telecommunications industry. The industry responded very positively to this effort; SCTE is building off that success. With this Society’s inherent expertise in applied technology and history of developing best practices for the industry, taking the lead in this very important area is a logical next step to further assist the industry in managing costs, increasing efficiency, and enhancing its positive impact with communities.
- Why should SEMI be a priority for our industry now?
Everyone is aware of the recent volatility in energy prices. This is not going to go away. Rising energy costs are a reality and something every business will have to address. Understanding ways to better manage those costs will be vital to continued profitability. Through best practices and thought leadership efforts, SCTE’s SEMI can help organizations control their costs and improve efficiencies. Additionally, as corporate citizens, operators will become better stewards of our natural resources that ultimately help the industry in the court of public opinion.
- What are the first steps of SEMI?
SCTE has already taken a leadership position in energy management, including the Green Pavilion and an inaugural forum in December 2009. The forum addressed facility powering issues and the industry-wide need for, and benefits of, comprehensive energy management plans. The initial agenda for 2010 and beyond includes multiple forums to raise awareness of developing solutions and how they apply to cable operations; an intensive research and thought leadership program; expanded panels and exhibit platforms at Cable-Tec Expo and other SCTE events; development of best practices in energy management; and practical technology demonstrations.
- How can others get involved with SEMI?
SCTE will be working hard to keep its members, and the industry, abreast of the latest news and activities. SCTE has established an e-mail address – energy@scte.org – specifically for SEMI inquiries and input and plans to create additional vehicles for the collection and communication of information. SCTE anticipates that the collaboration will result in case studies, demonstration projects and standards-based solutions that will positively impact the bottom lines and public images of cable system operators.
To get the latest updates and information on SCTE’s SEMI, please write to energy@scte.org