Accenture, a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, has entered into an agreement to acquire Structure, a provider of consulting, system integration and customized solutions and services to energy and utilities clients. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The transaction is expected to expand and enhance Accenture’s deep experience and capabilities in smart grid solutions, especially grid operations, as well as energy commodity trading and risk management.

“Bringing together two very similar cultures with deep skills in the utilities and energy industries reinforces our ability to help our clients solve some of the most complex and critical challenges that lie at the heart of the digital transformation,” said Omar Abbosh, senior managing director, Accenture Resources operating group. “Structure’s capabilities in grid operations and power systems engineering, combined with Accenture’s global strengths in information technology, will provide our clients with comprehensive end-to-end solutions and services to support the integration of operational technologies with information technology systems, forging a path toward a smarter, more digital grid."

According to Abbosh, this includes the deployment of advanced distribution management systems and automation solutions, as well as improved outage management and grid analytics. He said Accenture also plans to combine Structure’s market operations and commodities trading services with Accenture’s capabilities in digital asset management.

Lelon Winstead, Structure managing partner, said joining forces with Accenture will provide a unique opportunity to extend its apabilities to offer critical business solutions on a global scale. “We believe Structure’s end-to-end expertise in smart grid, commodities trading and market operations aligns well with Accenture’s grid operations and energy commodities trading businesses," he explained. "Accenture is a strong strategic fit with our offerings, presence and capabilities in a very complementary manner. We share very similar company cultures focused on delivery excellence, strong client relations and deep industry experience and specialization.”

The acquisition of Structure is subject to regulatory review and other customary closing conditions.