NW Natural Gas Expands its Automation to Include Evaluation of Itron Fixed Network Technology, Collects Reads from 100G Datalogging Gas ERT® Modules

LIBERTY LAKE, Wash. — September 29, 2009 — Itron Inc. (NASDAQ: ITRI) announced today that NW Natural Gas is leveraging its deployment of Itron advanced metering technology to include evaluation of Itron’s Fixed Network. Now operational, the network immediately began collecting reads from within a targeted population of NW Natural’s 375,000 existing 100G and 100G Datalogging Gas ERT modules.

While evaluating the technology, NW Natural will obtain read data in near real-time rather than waiting for the traditional drive-by read. This timely information, coupled with analysis, can help NW Natural analyze customer usage patterns and develop future products and services.

NW Natural began its AMR program in 2006 and has already automated more than 635,000 meters in its Oregon territory using Itron technology. In July of 2008, the utility began its deployment of 100G and 100G Datalogging ERT modules, Itron’s newest generation of higher powered gas modules, bringing gas advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) capabilities to its territory.

NW Natural considered a number of technologies before choosing an Itron system. Cost reductions and operational efficiencies were the primary drivers for automating its territories.

“Itron’s ChoiceConnect system provides NW Natural with flexibility for future requirements while delivering solid benefits today,” said Mike Zimmer, Itron vice president of western region sales. “NW Natural’s decision to evaluate the Itron Fixed Network is validation that they chose the right technology and the right deployment strategy. We value our ongoing relationship with NW Natural and look forward to working with them on this phase of their automation strategy.”