3rd International Conference on Business Intelligence and Data Analytics (BIDA 2026)

Organized by RV Institute of Management (RVIM), Bangalore, India

 Technically Sponsored by Soft Computing Research Society

April 11-12, 2026The after-conference proceeding of the BIDA 2026 will be published in Scopus Indexed Springer Book Series "Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies"

The after-conference proceeding of the BIDA 2026 will be published in Scopus Indexed Springer Book Series "Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies"

Vikas Reddy Vallakonda

Securing the Digital Grid: SAP S/4HANA, Real-Time Intelligence, and the Future of Critical Energy Infrastructure

Abstract:

In 2026, the energy industry faces a dual imperative: accelerating the transition to decentralised, green energy systems while defending against increasingly sophisticated cyber-physical threats. At the centre of this transformation is SAP IS-U’s evolution from a traditional billing platform into a real-time, AI-augmented “Utility Core” built on S/4HANA. This session explores how modernising SAP IS-U enables utilities to embed security directly into digital transformation initiatives across critical infrastructure. Attendees will gain insight into how Meter Data Unification and Synchronisation (MDUS), combined with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), enables real-time detection of spoofed consumption data and physical meter tampering, helping utilities proactively mitigate fraudulent load-balancing threats. The session also examines how adopting a “Clean Core” approach through S/4HANA and RISE with SAP eliminates legacy custom-code vulnerabilities, replacing fragmented security models with standardised, automated protection across critical business processes. In addition, the talk highlights how identity-centric infrastructure, powered by Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), enforces strict access governance across IT and OT systems by tying field service operations directly to verified work orders and authenticated identities. Finally, it demonstrates how SAP’s unified data model supports regulatory resilience by automating compliance with frameworks such as NERC CIP and global data sovereignty laws, generating immutable, audit-ready logs for every interaction with grid-impacting assets. 

Profile:

Vikas Reddy Vallakonda is a seasoned professional with over 14 years of experience in the analysis, design, configuration, development, and deployment of ERP and business applications, specialising in SAP S/4HANA BRIM (Subscription Order Management, Convergent Charging, Convergent Invoicing), SAP CRM, and SD modules. He has worked extensively as a lead solution architect, providing both functional and techno-functional expertise, and has been a key player in multiple end-to-end cross-country implementations, rollouts, upgrades, and support projects using S/4HANA, ECC 6.0, and CRM 7.0. His deep understanding of business processes spans various industries, such as banking, utilities, manufacturing, finance, telecom, and insurance. Vikas has demonstrated strong capabilities in solution design and configuration for S/4HANA BRIM, including Subscription Order Management, Convergent Charging, and Invoicing modules, while integrating them with other SAP systems like FICA, FICO, MM, and others. He is particularly proficient in advanced variant configuration (AVC), product pricing, billing processes, and system integration with third-party solutions. His expertise also includes integrating SAP CRM modules for sales, marketing, service management, and e-commerce functionalities. Over the years, he has built a solid reputation for his ability to design and implement efficient, scalable solutions that streamline complex business processes and enhance operational efficiency. Currently, Vikas has served as the Technical Program Manager at Discovery Analytics Inc. since May 2024. In this role, he is responsible for the SAP BRIM implementation, driving the architecture strategy, enterprise process design, and integration efforts. His leadership in the project has been pivotal in simplifying complex billing processes and redesigning legacy system integrations for seamless operations in S/4HANA. Before this, he worked as an SAP S/4HANA BRIM Manager and Techno-Functional Architect at Springshine Consulting, where he led SAP BRIM (SOM, CC, CI) implementations for multiple clients. His work involved collaborating with business users to understand their requirements, designing and configuring the necessary solutions, and overseeing the development and testing of custom RICEF objects, Fiori apps, and ODATA services. Vikas has consistently played a crucial role in guiding development teams, conducting business design sessions, preparing architecture strategies, and leading technical reviews. He is known for his ability to deliver high-quality, practical solutions that align with business objectives while ensuring seamless integration and system functionality. His contributions in these areas have helped streamline operational processes, reduce manual work, and enhance business outcomes for numerous clients.