SP AusNet, an Australian energy distribution company, has selected Ericsson to deploy a 3G network-enabled communications solution to support its electricity smart meter program.
As part of the deal, SP AusNet is extending its existing smart meter footprint with an Ericsson solution that uses public 3G mobile networks and will reach a further 108,000 meters in outer urban and rural areas, said Ericsson in a statement.
SP AusNet’s Director of Market Services Simon Hastings said its 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.
This 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.
The solution designed by Ericsson is fast to deploy and a very cost-effective way to roll out wireless-enabled smart meters, Ericsson claimed.