Itron, Inc. (NASDAQ: ITRI) announced today that its industry-leading
OpenWay® smart grid network is now available on a global
scale. OpenWay is an advanced IP network that supports multiple smart
grid applications and devices over an interoperable, secure,
enterprise-class network infrastructure. The network addresses key
drivers and business needs of utilities around the globe, from
improvement in grid reliability to support for consumer engagement and
energy efficiency.
Itron’s global OpenWay network connects utilities with their customers
and grid assets using multiple communication options – RF Mesh,
cellular, power line carrier (PLC) – based on localized protocols and
standards. The OpenWay communication network is managed under Itron’s
unified data collection and management platform, streamlining the
meter-to-cash business process regardless of communication method.
The OpenWay network also features Itron and Cisco’s jointly designed
IPv6 reference architecture to ensure device interoperability and
multi-service operations using common information technology tools along
with a unified network security architecture. Cisco’s Connected Grid
Network Management System provides enterprise-class network management
for all field area devices, ensuring business functions adhere to
established quality of service levels. This results in a network
architecture that is highly scalable, secure and adaptable to changing
needs.
OpenWay features data collection, network and asset monitoring and
control capabilities that, when combined with Itron Analytics and
Itron-developed or other third-party devices and applications, provide a
powerful suite of smart grid applications – such as distribution
automation, demand response and renewables integration – to utilities,
energy service providers and customers. The advanced architecture
provides Itron with the ability to embed its OpenWay communications
technology into third-party devices for both grid- and customer-facing
applications. Itron also combines OpenWay with comprehensive managed
services to simplify deployment and lower the overall total cost of
ownership for utilities.
The OpenWay network also leverages the broader Cisco Connected Grid
Developer Network, which represents a growing ecosystem of technology
providers spanning the entire smart grid value chain. This provides
utilities with a broad portfolio of technology choices to enable a “best
of breed” approach to deploying smart grid applications over a common
network infrastructure.
“Itron is first to market and the only solution provider that offers
utilities their choice of multiple communications options over a common
IPv6 architecture jointly developed with Cisco. This enables us to offer
true plug-and-play interoperability on a global basis,” said Mark de
Vere White, president of Itron’s electricity business unit. “OpenWay
technology is now deployed on four continents worldwide and we are
building upon its well-established success in North America to set a new
standard for smart grid networks on a global basis.”
With nearly 15 million smart meters and network devices installed and
operating under OpenWay networks, Itron has successfully completed
several large-scale deployments at leading utilities in North America to
support a wide range of capabilities and business case outcomes. OpenWay
delivers on ambitious and visionary business cases every day.
About Itron
Itron is a global technology company. We build solutions that help
utilities measure, manage and analyze energy and water. Our broad
product portfolio includes electricity, gas, water and thermal energy
measurement and control technology; communications systems; software;
and professional services. With thousands of employees supporting nearly
8,000 utilities in more than 100 countries, Itron empowers utilities to
responsibly and efficiently manage energy and water resources. Join us
in creating a more resourceful world; start here: www.itron.com.
Copyright Business Wire 2013