Regulation of the gas industry. Bord Gais Eireann : a case study

Abstract

The focus of this dissertation is analysis of the effects of Market Opening on the Bord Gais Eireann Information Systems, Information Technology Infrastructures and the Information Technology Department Structure. The Commission for Energy Regulation is the independent body responsible for overseeing the liberalisation and regulation of Irelands energy sector. From a BGE perspective, regulation and competition means fundamental changes in business processes, business policy, organisational structure, information systems use and information technology requirements. Legislation demands that these changes be achieved in a very ambitious time-scale. In devising its strategy to fulfil its legislative requirements, a Project approach was adopted and the principles of low cost, low risk and on schedule were a top priority for BGE. A pragmatic approach to all issues was adopted and risk was managed by phasing in market opening between the late 1990s to 2005. The information systems are in a period of significant change. In addition to Market Opening work, day-to-day operations changes are constantly required. The IT department as guardians of the systems must take great care to ensure that the resulting data models are robust and capable of meeting the needs of all systems users. The IT Department has undergone significant changes since the commencement of the Market Opening project. Staff numbers have increased dramatically and existing request approval and prioritisation mechanisms are no longer sufficient to manage the current level of change.