Michigan-based utility Consumers Energy is working with GE on a pilot project demonstrating the integration of WiMax communications tech and smart meters.
"This infrastructure solution could be significant in its ability to provide far more real-time information and updates to distributed intelligent metering devices over utility equipment lifespans," says Consumers Energy's Wayne Longcore.
GE says its advanced metering infrastructure, when coupled with back-office distribution management systems, can give network managers and utility information systems an accurate picture of grid operating status at all times. For instance, meter information can help determine the scope and location of an outage, enable distribution automation systems to reroute power and dispatch repair crews.
