With the passage of Energy Infrastructure Modernization Act (EIMA), ComEd was required to improve its overall system reliability. In order to reach the goals outlined in the law, ComEd decided to leverage a common network for multiple applications, including advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), distribution automation (DA) and smart city programs. With a modernized communications infrastructure, the utility would be able to increase grid reliability by identifying problems faster, optimizing business processes, automating problem resolution and reducing truck rolls.