The utility will deploy the Sensus FlexNet communications network across its service territory and retrofit all commercial meters with smart endpoints to enhance operational efficiency and support water conservation programs in the metro Albuquerque area.
The utility officials anticipate that installation will be complete by September 2011.
Water Authority policy manager Frank Roth said the two-way communication abilities of the FlexNet network will help the utility reduce nonrevenue water losses and associated delivery costs, support water conservation programs and manage demand.
The commercial meters under the first phase of the program represent customers that make up 13% of water demand and provide 20% of utility revenue, the company siad.
In January 2012, the Water Authority will begin planning the second phase of the program to expand AMI service to approximately 200,000 residential meters.
