Sensus and GE's Digital Energy business are working together, integrating Sensus FlexNet® communication technology into GE's existing I-210+c™ electric meter—its most advanced residential electricity metering solution. As a result, electric utilities in the United States and Canada will have more options to deliver accuracy, reliability and quality service to their consumers.
"This collaboration will deliver enormous benefits for the industry, including operational efficiency and reliability of service," said Sensus Vice President of Marketing Greg Myers. "Extending our collaboration with GE—from commercial and industrial (C&I) to residential meters—complements our own electric meter portfolio and provides more choices for our customers."
"Creating and sustaining two-way dialogue between end-users and electricity providers is critical," said Ed Myszka, general manager, meters, GE Digital Energy. "By leveraging Sensus FlexNet technology with our world-class I-210+c electric meter, we're able to keep this line of communication open with one comprehensive solution. This helps electric utilities meet energy demands and quickly identify and restore power outages while allowing their end-users to realize the benefits of the modern grid."
Built on GE's meter platform and inclusive of a Sensus FlexNet radio module, the GE I-210+c FlexNet-enabled meter will be available with and without remote disconnect. The new meter is also expected to meet Underwriters Laboratory (UL) 2735 at the time of initial product availability and Measurement Canada certification within three months of availability. GE's residential smart meters were the first in the industry to achieve the UL-safety certification in 2014.
"GE's UL-certified smart meters offer utilities an added level of confidence surrounding the safety and functionality of their metering systems," added Myszka. With the recent launch of its Stratusâ„¢ meter, Sensus will soon be the only manufacturer to offer two UL 2735 certified meters integrated with the FlexNet communication network.
The Sensus FlexNet system is a long-range radio network that provides a scalable and reliable communications infrastructure that enables smart cities. The range of the point-to-multi-point network reduces the number of access points required to capture and transmit data. Electric utilities using the FlexNet communication network can support multiple applications that increase operational efficiency and customer engagement. The large inventory of licensed spectrum ensures that customers have the bandwidth required to support future data requirements.
An initial launch of the GE I-210+c FlexNet-enabled meter is expected in July with general availability in the second half of 2015. Sensus and GE are exploring the opportunity to extend their collaboration to include IEC meters.
