A comprehensive communications network is required for centralized production monitoring, balance-sheet group settlement within Axpo AG and for the successful operation of the transmission and distribution systems. Information and command transmission is guaranteed at all times, as are fault alarms between the Energy and Network Control Center and the individual plants. This network, which is largely created by Axpo specialists via fiber-optic connections, is also used for internal phone calls and for IT purposes. Where the need arises, it is used to alert the on-call services.

The continuous flow of energy from power stations to consumers requires a fully functional network of lines. The network operations manager and the network control dispatcher ensure that this network is available and running at optimum capacity around the clock. They are responsible for the coordination and planning of requests to deactivate parts of the network for the purposes of maintenance or repairs, as well as for monitoring the state of the network, performing or arranging switching actions and fault management on the Axpo line network and the substations and their switchgear. This means that network elements which fail due to faults can go back into service as soon as possible or that the fault affecting them can be rectified.

Working on the basis of these criteria, the Operational Power Plant Team has to optimize power plant deployment around the clock, respond to changes in prognoses (weather, consumption, etc.), comply with the system services promised to swissgrid, minimize the unscheduled power flows for the Axpo balance sheet group and respond to faults in the power plant fleet. This varied task requires a wealth of experience, as well as the ability to act quickly and efficiently, yet maintaining a level head at all times.