Itron Unveils the Future of Rural Smart Communities with New Fiber Mini Access Point Featuring Intelligent Connectivity
Itron, Inc. (NASDAQ: ITRI) has introduced its Fiber Mini Access Point (Fiber MiniAP™), designed to enhance connectivity for smart meters and devices via existing fiber assets. This innovation aims to support rural electric cooperatives by extending IIoT network coverage and aiding in grid modernization. The Fiber MiniAP reduces infrastructure costs while enabling advanced applications like electric vehicle management and distributed energy resources. Scheduled for testing with cooperative utilities, this solution is set for commercial release in North America in the first half of 2024.
- Launch of Fiber MiniAP enables improved connectivity for rural electric cooperatives.
- Helps reduce infrastructure and total cost of ownership for network upgrades.
- Supports advanced applications such as electric vehicle monitoring and management.
- No immediate financial metrics or projections provided regarding the Fiber MiniAP's impact.
Itron’s Fiber MiniAP Leverages Existing Fiber Assets to Connect Smart Meters and Devices to Itron’s Multi-Purpose Network, Extending IIoT Network Coverage
Rural electric cooperatives often recognize the synergy and interdependency between broadband and smart grid networks and in many instances face the challenge of building these networks in more sparsely populated areas. It is common amongst these cooperatives to deploy fiber for both utility and commercial connectivity. Fiber adoption will continue to accelerate as government funding for these networks becomes available. By leveraging these fiber assets, the Fiber MiniAP extends industrial IoT (IIoT) network coverage in rural areas with low meter-per-mile density while reducing infrastructure and total cost of ownership, both of which are common obstacles to cooperative network upgrades.
Further, rural electric cooperatives can utilize Itron's extensive partner ecosystem to address grid modernization challenges at their own pace with a future-ready IIoT network. Fiber-enabled distributed intelligence also opens the door to advanced applications such as electric vehicle monitoring and management, distributed energy resource management, Conservation Voltage Reduction and more. Powerful edge computing capabilities will allow for unprecedented visibility and control in low and medium voltage distribution networks, ultimately driving more value to members. Itron is currently planning to test the Fiber MiniAP with cooperative utilities and the solution will be commercially available in
“Utility companies are always looking for ways to deliver reliable and safe energy services. With Itron’s Fiber MiniAP, these companies can now extend intelligently connected network coverage and advanced applications further,” said
“National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (NRTC), an Itron Sales Channel Partner, provides solutions to more than 1,500 rural electric and telephone utilities and affiliates in 48 states. With the creation of the Fiber MiniAP, Itron is considering the voice of the customer,” said
About Itron
Itron enables utilities and cities to safely, securely and reliably deliver critical infrastructure solutions to communities in more than 100 countries. Our portfolio of smart networks, software, services, meters and sensors helps our customers better manage electricity, gas and water resources for the people they serve. By working with our customers to ensure their success, we help improve the quality of life, ensure the safety and promote the well-being of millions of people around the globe. Itron is dedicated to creating a more resourceful world. Join us: www.itron.com.
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Additional Resources
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Senior Manager, Corporate Communications
509-891-3802
PR@Itron.com
Source: Itron
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