IBM and the Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO) will collaborate to build a fiber-optic communications and control network based on Carrier Ethernet that helps lay the foundation for a state-wide smart grid. The network is expected to span more than 1000 miles and connect transmission substations to Vermont’s distribution utilities.

IBM will provide project management and networking services from its Intelligent Utility Network portfolio while Ciena will supply a 6500 packet-optical transport system and elements of Carrier Ethernet service aggregation and delivery switches.

The new network will relay information to the utility about usage, voltage, existing or potential outages, and equipment performance. The use of fiber optics and Carrier Ethernet systems enables VELCO to improve power quality, avoid power outages, and resolve outages more quickly.

VELCO president and chief executive officer Chris Dutton notes, “As the transmission provider for the State of Vermont, VELCO is committed to improving power grid reliability and security. Our collaboration with IBM to construct a network that both strengthens system reliability and enables Vermont utilities to execute our collaborative statewide smart grid initiative provides an innovative model for the rest of the country to build a 21st century smart grid.”

Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin calls the partnership between VELCO and IBM “an excellent example of how our state innovates. This network will increase grid reliability, enable smart grid communications and help build the economic development platform necessary to create sustainable jobs. It’s another concrete step toward our long-term goal to make Vermont a national model for energy policy – a source of best practices and technical assistance as the smart grid rolls out nationwide.”

Guido Bartels, general manager of IBM’s Global Energy and Utilities Industry segment adds: “This new high-speed network will allow VELCO to enhance and adapt its services as customer and requirements change. This goal is consistent with our Smarter Planet initiative to help utilities around the world transform their systems to improve customer service delivery. We see Vermont utilities and their customers as ideal partners to build the power grid of the future due to the strong commitment by all the stakeholders in the state on a common vision.”

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