Itron to deliver interoperable, multi-service communications network,
software and more than 2 million smart meters
LIBERTY LAKE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--
Itron, Inc. (NASDAQ: ITRI), a world-leading technology and services
company dedicated to the resourceful use of energy and water, announced
today that FirstEnergy, one of the nation's largest investor-owned
utilities, has signed a contract with Itron to deploy Itron's OpenWay®
smart grid solution across its four Pennsylvania-based utilities,
including Metropolitan Edison, Pennsylvania Electric, Pennsylvania Power
and West Penn Power. The contract signing follows approval from the
Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. The solution, which features
Itron and Cisco's jointly developed IPv6 network architecture, will help
modernize FirstEnergy's electricity distribution system and enable
advanced capabilities and consumer programs.
The multi-service smart grid network will provide FirstEnergy with
flexible infrastructure that supports Act 129 regulatory requirements
for smart metering. The system and the data it delivers will help
FirstEnergy operate its grid more reliably and efficiently, improve
customer service and provide FirstEnergy's customers with access to
detailed consumption information so they can better manage their energy
usage and costs.
FirstEnergy will install more than 2 million Itron smart meters over the
next several years, meeting all the functional and business requirements
outlined in Act 129 passed by the Pennsylvania legislature in 2008 to
increase energy efficiency in the state. Itron will also implement
sophisticated back-office data collection software, including Itron's
meter data management, collection engine and reporting software, and
Cisco's Connected Grid Network Management System.
"After a rigorous selection process, Itron proved to be the vendor of
choice based on its extensive industry experience and leadership, proven
smart metering technology and ability to support Act 129 requirements
comprehensively," said John Dargie, vice president of energy efficiency
at FirstEnergy. "We are excited to realize the potential of this
advanced technology that will allow us to modernize our grid today while
preparing for smart grid applications of tomorrow."
"Itron looks forward to helping FirstEnergy transform its electrical
grid in Pennsylvania and take advantage of seamless, plug-and-play
interoperability," said Mark de Vere White, president of Itron's
electricity business unit. "In today's resource-constrained world,
responsible management of energy and water is more important than ever.
With smart technologies, we are helping FirstEnergy solve key business
challenges and support a more sustainable and energy-efficient future."
About Itron
Itron is a world-leading technology and services company dedicated to
the resourceful use of energy and water. We provide comprehensive
solutions that measure, manage and analyze energy and water. Our broad
product portfolio includes electricity, gas, water and thermal energy
measurement devices and control technology; communications systems;
software; as well as managed and consulting services. With thousands of
employees supporting nearly 8,000 customers in more than 100 countries,
Itron applies knowledge and technology to better manage energy and water
resources. Together, we can create a more resourceful world. Join us: www.itron.com.
Itron, Inc.
Sharelynn Moore, 509-891-3524
Vice
President, Corporate Marketing and Public Affairs
sharelynn.moore@itron.com
Source: Itron, Inc.
News Provided by Acquire Media