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

coal power plant smoke

Carbon emissions fall as electricity producers move away from coal

LONDON - Carbon emissions from the global electricity system fell by 2% last year, the biggest drop in almost 30 years, as countries began to turn their backs on coal-fired power plants.

A new report on the world’s electricity generation revealed the steepest cut in carbon emissions since 1990 as the US and the EU turned to cleaner energy sources.

Overall, power from coal plants fell by 3% last year, even as China’s reliance on coal plants climbed for another year to make up half the world’s coal generation for the first time.

Coal generation in the US and Europe has halved since…

READ MORE

IAEA Reviews Belarus’ Nuclear Power Infrastructure Development

READ MORE

old dam

Some old dams are being given a new power: generating clean electricity

READ MORE

electric car

Gas-electric hybrid vehicles get a boost in the US from Ford, others

READ MORE

abu dhabi nuclear plant

Crucial step towards completing nuclear plant achieved in Abu Dhabi

READ MORE