Capable of using public 3G mobile networks, Ericsson’s solution is expected to help SP AusNet extend its existing smart meter footprint, to incorporate an additional 108,000 meters in outer urban and rural areas across Australia.
Designed, developed and manufactured to fit into smart meters chosen by SP AusNet, the fast to deploy solution is dubbed as a very cost-effective way to roll out wireless-enabled smart meters, and can easily be modified to work with other vendors’ metering solutions.
Eriksson Australia and New Zealand head Hakan Eriksson said the Australian smart grid solution is a first in combining an existing 3G network, a 3G-enabled smart meter module, a purpose-built meter management system and the systems integration required to pull it all together.
"The utilization of secure public wireless networks to support smart grids is significant as it allows utilities to focus on delivering energy to homes and businesses by minimizing the task of managing a complex communications network," Eriksson added.
SP AusNet Market Services director Simon Hastings said, "Our partnership with Ericsson to develop a 3G solution provides a cost-effective means for customers in low-density, regional areas to access the benefits of smart meters.”
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