The first smart meter project in the African continent was implemented

Introduction: Several months ago, we outlined an Itron strategy for smart grids in 2012 and beyond. An important part of this revival plan is to expand its sales in Latin America. The implementation of the results of the first smart meter project in the African continent took its first significant step. Together with Itron’s next internal plan for the deployment of smart meters in France, prospects for the company in 2012 are on the horizon.

Itron has announced that Guayaquil Power, a state-owned power company in Ecuador, has completed the installation of the first meter-to-cash smart meter system in Latin America. This system uses Itron's technology.

This communication system enables mobile phone meter data and feeds it back to Itron's meter data management system via a two-way wireless communication network. This data management system is installed by the utility company. The completion of this project means that utility companies can reduce energy consumption and energy management for commercial and industrial users in Guayaquil through the use of meters with various functions such as data modification prevention, accurate measurement and sensing. This solution also optimizes overall business processes and improves efficiency.

In addition, the installation work provides utilities with options for future capabilities and applications, such as theft analysis.

Diego Sanchez, Commercial Manager of Guayaquil Utilities, stated: "With such a complete smart grid system including network and telegraph data management systems, we can fully utilize the full potential of its system efficiency and energy loss management."