SmartSynch wants to cut visits by meter readers

subscribe

A new smart grid device from SmartSynch will send information about power consumption over public wireless networks. Utilities will be able to automatically distribute to devices smart grid applications that manage power consumption and allow consumers to reduce energy costs.

The Universal Communications Module (UCM), is a a box outside the of electric meter and will use open standards to communicate to a variety of smart grid devices in development over any type of local or wide area network.

SmartSynch's technology was designed to work with existing technology while upgrading the flexibility of the grid through advanced energy management, according to the company. SmartSynch is working with Duke Energy to implement the wireless solution. David Mohler, CTO and VP of Duke Energy, refers to the UCM as being a "future-proof' solution" for their smart grid initiative.

SmartSynch's technology for adding new functionality can enable utilities to physically modify or replace meters. The UCM works to communicate load profiles and controls, power quality monitoring, distribution automation, and stand-by generator control. The device is also intended to work alongside residential smart metering programs, allowing homeowners to adjust and adapt their personal energy usage. For example, the temperature on a "smart" air-conditioner could be automatically raised while you're at work to save on energy costs.

The UCM network card units can communicate over the Internet via the existing network in a home or commercial site. With the smart grid attention from the Recovery Plan, which offers $4.5 billion in grants for technology investment, the need for open standards has been impressed upon smart grid devices makers including SmartSynch.

SmartSynch has already worked with more than 100 major North American utilities with their SmartMeter and SmartBox devices. SmartSynch last month partnered with AT&T to use cellular networks to provide a communications channel between utilities and 10,000 homes.

Related News

ontario logo

Ontario Provides Stable Electricity Pricing for Industrial and Commercial Companies

TORONTO - The Ontario government is helping large industrial and commercial companies return to full levels of operation without the fear of electricity costs spiking by providing more stable electricity pricing for two years. Effective immediately, companies that participate in the Industrial Conservation Initiative (ICI) will not be required to reduce their electricity usage during peak hours, as their proportion of Global Adjustment (GA) charges for these companies will be frozen.

"Ontario's industrial and commercial electricity consumers continue to experience unprecedented economic challenges during COVID-19," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. "Today's announcement will allow large industrial…

READ MORE
nick clark

Calgary electricity retailer urges government to scrap overhaul of power market

READ MORE

saskpower building

Sask. Party pledges 10% rebate on SaskPower electricity bills

READ MORE

ukraine-fights-to-keep-the-lights-on

Ukraine fights to keep the lights on as Russia hammers power plants

READ MORE

heathrow-airport-power-outage-vulnerabilities-flagged-days-before-disruption

Heathrow Airport Power Outage: Vulnerabilities Flagged Days Before Disruption

READ MORE