The utility is considered a pioneer in developing an innovative communication technology as a part of its Smart Grid R&D Project, launched in January 2013 in the city of Barueri, which aims to implement a redundant communication board that can embed two communication technologies – radio frequency and PLC (Power Line Carrier) – in the same device, applying adaptive communications and edge computing power.
The smart communication in the meters will provide significant potential for embedded computing and support for multiple measurement communication protocols as well as other smart devices, providing better decision-making processes for the utility. The solution’s OpenWay Riva-enabled meters offer a new platform for various smart grid applications, leading intelligence to the edge of the network, including detection and analysis of power outages, transformer load management and revenue protection.
Through the smart grid project, "P&D AES Eletropaulo – Smart Grid," Itron and AES Eletropaulo will provide adaptive communication technology, deploying a single network solution that incorporates radio frequency and power line carrier in the same device. The solution dynamically selects the optimal communications path based on network operating conditions, data attributes and application requirements. AES Eletropaulo will also benefit from traditional smart metering capabilities, including remote metering, remote disconnect, diversion detection and other operational efficiencies.
The complete solution will be comprised of Itron’s OpenWay Riva-enabled meters, third party electricity meters and associated software applications that will help utilities meet goals of improving service quality, decreasing operating costs and reducing technical and non-technical losses of low voltage customers of Barueri city.
"Itron is pleased to announce the first contract in Latin America for our game-changing OpenWay Riva solution. This project demonstrates the adaptability of Itron Riva to enable edge intelligence in third-party devices," said Emerson Souza, managing director of Itron Latin America, Electricity. "With revolutionary sensing and communications technology, OpenWay Riva will help visionary utilities like AES Eletropaulo improve operations and better manage energy resources."
