AT&T continues to further its efforts in smart grid for utility companies with a new agreement with Petra Solar, a company that combines solar generation and smart grid technology in a single system. AT&T will offer Petra Solar's innovative technology, which allows utility companies to simultaneously address Renewable Portfolio Standard requirements and invest in a smart grid technology.
Petra Solar designs and manufactures the first smart grid interactive solar electric system specifically designed for installation on utility distribution poles, Utility Grade SunWave UP Series. The systems, which operate as individual power generation stations, combine solar power, smart grid and power management technologies to enable utilities to improve power quality and grid management. Petra Solar's systems operate on streetlight and utility poles, connecting directly to the grid's secondary voltage lines at the pole.
Last July the N.J. Board of Public Utilities approved a contract between Petra Solar and New Jersey's largest utility, PSE&G, to generate 40MW of power through SunWave solar systems installed on up to 200,000 poles in New Jersey. The intelligent photovoltaic solar units are currently being installed throughout the state's six largest cities and 300 suburban communities and will be running on the AT&T wireless network.
"This program, which is part of our Solar 4 All initiative, brings the benefits of solar energy to every community we serve, while also creating much needed green jobs in manufacturing and installation. PSE&G's programs to promote energy efficiency, develop renewables and accelerate infrastructure investments are putting hundreds of New Jersey residents to work at this critical time," said Ralph LaRossa, PSE&G president and COO.
AT&T's suite of M2M pricing plans designed specifically for smart grids makes this solution an economical choice for utilities. In addition, AT&T offers a range of strategic mobility products and services to the utility industry, including wireless solutions for field service workers, outage detection and remote monitoring for automated metering infrastructure. AT&T's dedicated team of industry specialists understands the business process from end to end and translates technical solutions into meaningful business value for customers.
