Itron to use AT&T network for meter monitoring

Itron Inc. will use AT&T Mobility Inc. to help utility companies improve business metrics. Itron plans to deliver its advanced meter infrastructure (AMI) solution over the AT&T wireless network, offering utility companies the ability to cut costs, better manage resources and improve customer service.
Itron’s OpenWay local-area networking will work with AT&T’s wide-area network to give utilities two-way communications, providing accessible data from meters throughout their systems. This partnership allows utilities to collect, measure and manage energy usage without having to build and operate its own communications networks, an often costly expense.
“AT&T and Itron offer utility companies the unprecedented combination of two industry-leading companies with the level of expertise required to harness the power of wireless technology for AMI transport,” said Philip Mezey, senior VP and COO of Itron North America. “The time, resources and costs saved will be of tremendous benefit, particularly in today’s energy-strapped economy.”
Interest in such machine-to-machine service has grown during the past several years, and a number of vendors – both large and small – are looking to cash in on the market.