Itron, Inc. (NASDAQ:ITRI) announced today that, to date, DTE Energy has
installed 800,000 Itron endpoints, including smart electric meters and
gas modules, in its Southeastern Michigan service area. This marks a
significant milestone for DTE Energy’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure
(AMI) project, which is a key component of the utility’s SmartCurrents
initiative. SmartCurrents aims to modernize DTE Energy’s electric
grid, improve distribution system reliability and efficiency, as well as
lower energy delivery costs and empower electric customers with more
information about their power usage.
In total, DTE Energy’s AMI project includes installation of over 3
million electric and gas meters in Michigan homes and businesses. The
advanced meters allow DTE Energy to get actual meter readings,
essentially eliminating estimated bills. The meters also allow the
utility to quickly locate and reduce the length of power outages, as
well as remotely connect and disconnect service for faster response to
customers. Customers also will be able to track, manage and control
their energy usage as a result of timely information provided by the
meters.
“With Itron’s next-generation utility technology, DTE Energy is
modernizing our grid and lowering the cost of energy delivery to our
customers,” said Bob Sitkauskas, manager of AMI, Major Enterprise
Projects at DTE Energy. “We are very pleased with the system’s
performance. It is delivering the automation capabilities we require
while deriving significant distribution and consumer benefits.”
Furthering the momentum of DTE Energy’s SmartCurrents project, the
Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) recently issued a report on
AMI, concluding that smart meters are an important component to the
success of an emerging smart grid. The Commission also noted that
electromechanical meters currently installed at many utilities,
including DTE Energy, are obsolete and out of production. Furthermore,
the MPSC staff report said that based on its review of extensive
research, federal health and safety regulations provide assurance that
smart meters represent a safe technology.
“Itron’s smart meters are a key component of DTE Energy’s smart grid
project, enabling the utility to create a more reliable, efficient grid
and informed energy users of the future,” said Mark de Vere White,
senior vice president of Itron Energy Group in North America. “We are
honored to be a part of the project’s momentum and to help create a
smarter future for DTE Energy’s customers.”
About Itron
Itron is a global technology company. We build solutions that help
utilities measure, monitor and manage energy and water. Our broad
product portfolio includes electricity, gas, water and thermal energy
measurement and control technology; communications systems; software;
and professional services. With thousands of employees supporting nearly
8,000 utilities in more than 100 countries, Itron empowers utilities to
responsibly and efficiently manage energy and water resources. Join us
in creating a more resourceful world; start here: www.itron.com.
