While evaluating the technology, NW Natural will obtain read data in near real-time rather than waiting for the traditional drive-by read. This timely information, coupled with analysis, can help NW Natural analyze customer usage patterns and develop future products and services.

NW Natural began its AMR program in 2006 and has already automated more than 635,000 meters in its Oregon territory using Itron technology. In July of 2008, the utility began its deployment of 100G and 100G Datalogging ERT modules, Itron's newest generation of higher powered gas modules, bringing gas advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) capabilities to its territory.

NW Natural considered a number of technologies before choosing an Itron system. Cost reductions and operational efficiencies were the primary drivers for automating its territories.

"Itron's ChoiceConnect system provides NW Natural with flexibility for future requirements while delivering solid benefits today," said Mike Zimmer, Itron vice president of western region sales. "NW Natural's decision to evaluate the Itron Fixed Network is validation that they chose the right technology and the right deployment strategy. We value our ongoing relationship with NW Natural and look forward to working with them on this phase of their automation strategy."

About Itron:

Itron Inc. is a leading technology provider to the global energy and water industries. Our company is the world's leading provider of intelligent metering, data collection and utility software solutions, with nearly 8,000 utilities worldwide relying on our technology to optimize the delivery and use of energy and water. Our products include electricity, gas, water and heat meters, data collection and communication systems, including automated meter reading (AMR) and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI); meter data management and related software applications; as well as project management, installation, and consulting services. To know more, start here: www.itron.com.

About NW Natural

NW Natural (NYSE:NWN) is a 150-year old company headquartered in Portland, Ore., and serves about 662,000 residential and business customers in Oregon and Southwest Washington. It is the largest independent natural gas utility in the Pacific Northwest and is one of the fastest-growing local distribution companies in the nation. NW Natural was the first gas-only utility in the nation to offer a high-quality carbon offset program to its customers. In 2003, the company became one of the first local natural gas companies to become decoupled, adopting a rate structure that eliminates profit from the sale of natural gas to our customers, effectively allowing it to promote energy conservation. For more information about NW Natural, please visit nwnatural.com.

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