Itron and AT&T announce deal

Itron and AT&T announced on August 17 that the two will collaborate in a smart meter communications scheme that will utilize cellular phone technology.  Itron is the industry leader in advanced metering technology (AMI), the technology that drives smart metering.  Now partnered with AT&T, Itron’s AMI solution will become deliverable over AT&T’s vast cellular network.

Itron’s IP-based smart metering solution, OpenWay, will integrate seamlessly within a wide area network (WAN) from AT&T.  The telecom’s cellular data network operates at the highest transmission speeds, allowing Itron’s smart meter networks to relay data communications between customer and consumer no matter where they may be located.
Once a smart meter system using AT&T’s and Itron’s technology is implemented, utilities will be able to rapidly collect, manage, and monitor energy consumption throughout their power distribution grid.  Such a system also greatly enhances the integrity and security of a power grid with all nodes communicating throughout the network.  Should a problem arise, the utility company becomes instantly aware that a work crew is needed and can dispatch one accordingly to the precise location.

All of this is possible without requiring the power company to build new, and very expensive, infrastructure.  The communications backbone is already in place with AT&T’s vast network.  Utility companies will now have the option to install a robust smart meter network at a reduced cost.

Running the network is less costly also.  Utility companies will not have to hire specialized staff to oversee the power network because AT&T remains responsible for managing the WAN.

“The AT&T/Itron solution enables utilities to use proven standards-based cellular technology for their Smart Grid AMI initiatives to transport device data and control messaging more efficiently,” commented Regina Egea, AT&T Global Business Services’ senior vice president.  “We are pleased to join with Itron to deliver a complete solution that promises to help utility companies streamline operations while gathering the critical information required to serve their customers.”

Both companies will market the new product together to American utility companies and it will still be known as Itron’s OpenWay AMI solution.  The solution will be enhanced and AT&T/Itron will be able to market the product in a number of ways, including:

* The coverage area for the data communications will be ubiquitous.

* Providing utility companies the information they need to perform modern functions such as demand response, power outage detection, precise billing statements, and enhanced energy management.

* Enables utilities to implement variable pricing schemes based on peak and off-peak times.

* Allows utilities to offer prepaid utility services and the ability to remotely connect or disconnect service.

* Utilities will be able to manage a smart meter/AMI deployment themselves using AT&T’s ordering, activation, and management systems for large customers.

* Trouble-free project introduction with the most experienced AMI deployment team in the industry.

“AT&T and Itron offer utility companies the unprecedented combination of two industry-leading companies with the level of expertise required to harness the power of wireless technology for AMI transport,” said Itron North America’s senior vice president and chief operating officer Philip Mezey.  “The time, resources and costs saved will be of tremendous benefit, particularly in today’s energy-strapped economy.”

Industry experts have identified several leading factors that are encouraging utility companies to implement enhanced data communications networks.  According to the North American Reliability Council, energy usage is expected to surge by 19 percent by the year 2010 – an amount of 141,000 megawatts.  Currently, however, there are only 57,000 additional megawatts available.

The utility industry is looking towards the development of smart grid technology that allows for monitoring, control, and data communications throughout the national power grid that will allow maximum power transmission efficiency.  At the same time, consumers will have information they never did before and can make better decisions regarding how they use energy.

“Smart Grid and AMI will require ubiquitous communications networks throughout utility service territories,” added Sierra Energy Group vice president Warren Causey.  “As enablers of Smart Grid and AMI initiatives, cellular technologies are receiving a great deal of increased scrutiny as utilities seek cost-effective means of implementing next-generation utility systems.”

Itron
2111 N Molter Road
Liberty Lake, WA 99019
http://www.itron.com

AT&T
175 E. Houston
San Antonio, TX 78205
http://www.att.com

North American Reliability Council
116-390 Village Boulevard
Princeton, NJ 08540-5721
http://www.nerc.com