GrDF Selects Itron to Deploy Smart Metering System in France
LIBERTY LAKE, Wash. — July 29, 2010 — Itron, Inc. (NASDAQ: ITRI) announced today that Gaz reseau Distribution France (GrDF), the main gas utility in France and 100% owned subsidiary of GdF Suez, has chosen Itron to deploy its EverBlu™ fixed data collection system to 5,000 residential customers in Saint-Omer, North of France.
As part of the European Energy Directives and following recommendations from the CRE* (Commission de Régulation de l'Energie) to begin testing smart meters in France, GrDF decided to set up various pilot programs, in four different towns, for residential gas meters over a period of one year. The objective of this experiment is to study the possibility of a future mass deployment for France's 11 million residential gas consumers.
In Saint-Omer, Itron is providing automated meter reading by supplying, installing and maintaining its EverBlu fixed data collection system. With its reliable, self-healing wireless mesh network and graphical data analysis and reporting tools, EverBlu is the ideal choice for utilities looking to streamline operations and acquire more detailed consumption data in a variety of environments. To date, Itron has already automated 4,000 points.
Benefits for end-users will include remote reading (no need for the customer to be present), more accurate and frequent readings (monthly or any time there is a change in the contract) and an improved understanding of gas consumption-thereby enabling a change in gas usage behaviour (source GrDF).
This pilot demonstrates Itron's capacity to develop and deploy complete solutions, including smart gas meters, infrastructure and associated software.
Commented Marcel Regnier, senior VP and COO, Itron International, "Itron has a broad experience with major energy utilities all over the world, and has several initial deployments with key gas distribution companies in Europe. We are very proud to have a leading role in this project which confirms Itron as a strong and reliable partner for future pilots and implementations in smart metering."
*CRE is an independent administrative authority, responsible for the smooth functioning of the electric & gas markets in France.
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