BT, a networked information technology services provider, is backing long-range radio and the Sensus FlexNet AMI system for the U.K.'s smart metering initiative. After spending 18 months analyzing the various smart metering communications options, BT has partnered with Arqiva, the U.K. communications infrastructure and media services company, and intelligence and security company, Detica, to offer a dedicated and secure long-range radio communications solution for Great Britain.

Sensus and Arqiva have a partnership that enables Arqiva to implement a long-range radio-based communications platform using the Sensus FlexNet system. FlexNet gives utilities a purpose-built smart meter application that operates over dedicated, licensed radio spectrum. Long-range radio can provide nationwide coverage and dependable reception for all utility types, regardless of the location of smart meters or other infrastructure.

Because FlexNet was designed from the outset as a smart meter and smart grid solution, gas, water and electric utilities can all securely run multiple applications — such as demand response, distribution automation, and supervisory control and data acquisition — with clarity over dedicated channels that are free from other types of communications traffic.

For more information, visit www.sensus.com.