Bentley OpenUtilities
Pros
- Combines CAD precision with GIS intelligence.
- Real-time cost estimates improve budgeting.
- Designed for large-scale infrastructure networks.
- High compatibility with ESRI and Oracle systems.
- Integrated workflow management for utility projects.
- Pre-configured data models for the utilities sector.
Cons
- High barrier to entry for new users.
- Complex licence and subscription management.
- Requires a high-performance IT infrastructure and database configuration.
- High costs for smaller businesses.
- The user documentation can be difficult to navigate in places.
Managing modern utility infrastructure is no easy task; it requires the utmost precision and seamless coordination. Bentley OpenUtilities simplifies this process through an integrated platform on which you can design, analyse and monitor electricity, gas, water and wastewater systems. The solution acts as a bridge between CAD-based design and GIS data, ensuring that your models are both physically accurate and compliant with industry standards.
For teams transitioning to renewable energy or setting up charging points for electric vehicles, the software includes specialised tools for capturing new network requirements and site planning. It is a powerful solution for utility companies, public authorities and consultants who need to maintain complex asset models whilst ensuring that construction and maintenance processes run smoothly.
What is Bentley OpenUtilities?
Bentley OpenUtilities is an engineering suite specifically developed for modelling utility networks and managing geospatial data. Developed by Bentley Systems, the solution is the first choice for energy, water, telecommunications and infrastructure providers.
The platform is primarily used to create digital twins of utility networks, combining technical analyses with GIS and 3D infrastructure data. It supports organisations in planning utility connections, managing utility assets and implementing renewable energy expansion projects.
Features
- Catalogue-driven design: Use of predefined technical components and materials for faster designs.
- Compatible unit cost calculation: Automatic calculation of labour and material costs.
- Integrated workflow management: Track projects from planning through to planning permission.
- Network tracing analysis: Analyse utility routes and infrastructure dependencies.
- Cross-disciplinary data models: Support for electricity, gas, water and district heating systems.
- Integration of digital network twins: Combine GIS and technical data into interactive 3D models.
- Interoperability tools: Share data using standard GIS formats such as ESRI SHP and MapInfo TAB.
Screenshots
Pricing for Bentley OpenUtilities
Pricing depends on the modules selected, the licence type and the organisation’s requirements.
- Access to the demo: Demos can be requested via Bentley or Virtuosity.
- Perpetual licences: One-off purchase with optional support subscriptions.
- Annual subscriptions: Subscription-based access with training credits.
- Quarterly licences: Some modules start at around US$1,001 per quarter.
- OpenUtilities Map: Around US$4,702 per year.
- ‘Substation’ module: Around US$11,824 per year.
- Enterprise plans: Tailor-made global licensing and support options.
Integrations
Bentley OpenUtilities integrates with leading GIS, CAD and infrastructure systems.
- GIS platforms: ESRI Geodatabase, Oracle Spatial, SQL Server Spatial, MapInfo.
- Engineering tools: WaterGEMS, SewerGEMS, MicroStation, SPIDAcalc.
- Reality modelling: ContextCapture integration.
- Cloud infrastructure: Support for Microsoft Azure.
- Office tools: Microsoft Excel integration for reporting and data definitions.
How to set up Bentley OpenUtilities
- Contact Bentley to select the appropriate modules.
- Set up Oracle or SQL Server database environments.
- Install the Bentley Connect Client for licensing and updates.
- Configure engineering standards and data models.
- Import existing GIS and CAD data.
- Create user roles, dashboards and workflow permissions.
How to use Bentley OpenUtilities
Planners use the platform to create and edit models of utility infrastructure, including transformers, pipelines, substations and utility networks. Workflow management tools help to track approvals and project progress.
Engineers can perform network tracing analyses, update digital twins, create bills of materials and produce construction-ready documentation directly via the platform.
What you can manage with Bentley OpenUtilities
- Electricity distribution networks: Design and analyse utility networks.
- Water and wastewater systems: Manage pipework, catchment areas and infrastructure assets.
- Project cost estimation: Track labour and material costs in real time.
- Workflow lifecycles: Monitor project approvals and on-site operations.
- Digital twins of utility networks: Maintain live infrastructure models.
- Construction documentation: Create plans, views and bills of materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does Bentley OpenUtilities do?
It is an enterprise platform for engineering and GIS used to plan, analyse and manage electricity, gas, water and telecommunications networks.
Who is this software intended for?
It is designed for utility companies, engineering firms, infrastructure operators and public authorities that manage large utility networks.
Is there a free version?
No, Bentley OpenUtilities is commercial enterprise software, although demos and trial versions may be available.
How much does the software cost?
Prices vary depending on the module and licensing model; some annual licences start at around US$4,700, whilst advanced modules cost over US$11,000.
What are the main drawbacks?
The main challenges are the high costs, the complexity of implementation, and the need for advanced training and a suitable IT infrastructure.
What are the best alternatives?
Popular alternatives include Schneider Electric EcoStruxure, GE Smallworld, ESRI ArcGIS Utility Network and AutoCAD Map 3D.
