French conglomerates Alstom and Capgemini have signed a global alliance agreement to pursue joint commercial opportunities for their combined smart grid solutions.

Both the companies are planning to launch new cloud-based Integrated Distribution Management Systems (IDMS) and Demand Response Management System (DRMS).

IDMS and DRMS are built on Alstom’s e-terra 3.0 network management software platform. The systems use a cloud environment to deliver cost savings and enhanced reliability.

The solutions jointly developed by the two companies are expected to address the challenges for distribution utilities such as reduced ownership costs with full investment protection, lower risk through a progressive roll-out of mission-critical technologies and optimized IT maintenance.

Capgemini Corporate vice president Perry Stoneman stated, "Capgemini and Alstom Grid cloud based IDMS and DRMS will offer our customers a secure virtual IT solution with proven Alstom Grid e-terra smart control room solutions."

Alstom Grid Network Management Systems VP Karim El Naggar said, "We want distribution utilities and their customers to benefit from our advanced smart grid applications in an easier and more cost effective way, based on the latest private cloud-based solutions from Capgemini."