Innovation at the Utility: Engineering Solutions for a Resilient and Reliable AMI Network

ComEd will highlight innovative engineering solutions incorporating Itron technology and utility know-how. The SMART (Solar Mobile AMI Reliability Trailer) is a nomadic communications center powered by renewable energy that is easily deployable throughout the service territory and is capable of both facilitating and monitoring the AMI network. This greatly increases ComEd's ability to access and understand the impact of both existing and/or new devices on to the AMI mesh network, ultimately resulting in a more reliable and resilient grid. Aside from the SMART trailer, ComEd is also re-engineering streetlight nodes so that they can service multiple purposes for radio frequency (RF) remediation, specifically as they relate to strengthening the mesh, and offer an economical solution for areas with RF shadows. This presentation will be co-presented by two engineers from ComEd and will emphasize the role of the utility to continuously innovate in order to maintain a resilient, reliable, and industry leading AMI mesh network, which serves as the foundation for smart electric meters, smart gas and water meters, and more, all of which are necessary for the modern smart city.