Piedmont Electric has selected Landis+Gyr to update its advanced metering system and provide supporting technology for grid management and member engagement. The electric cooperative will deploy Landis+Gyr's Gridstream Connect platform with RF mesh network and 35,000 advanced meters to replace its existing power line carrier advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) system.
The new network will enable secure communication with advanced meters, load control and distribution automation devices, while improving reliability and support for flexible billing options such as prepay metering services. Landis+Gyr is also providing software-as-a-service (SaaS) for system software, including advanced grid analytics that will assist the utility with voltage management, planning, and preventative maintenance.
"We're looking forward to expanding our member service offerings, improving outage response and load management across our distribution system," said Chuck Lee, manager of energy services at Piedmont Electric. "We also expect to see an increase in efficiency and our ability to manage power costs, which will directly benefit our members."
"This project will showcase many of the advantages a modern grid management system provides for both the utility and consumers. Not only does the increased level of data and automation benefit utility operations, but it also provides many more options to consumers looking to manage their energy use and save on electric bills," said Jay Lasseter, vice president of sales and marketing at Landis+Gyr.
The Gridstream Connect platform features Wi-SUN certified components that enable end-to-end interoperability and internet of things (IoT) capabilities to the grid. Combined with meters, sensors, and software applications, the system allows seamless operation of smart grid and consumer-side energy management programs.
Piedmont Electric also plans to leverage Gridstream connectivity for distribution automation and load management in the future.
