Washington-based Itron has shipped its millionth Intelis ultrasonic smart gas meter.

Itron says it is the first vendor in North America to ship one million residential ultrasonic meters. It showcased the smart gas meter and other innovations in natural gas delivery at last week’s American Gas Association’s Annual Operations Conference in Texas.

The Intelis smart gas meter extends intelligence to the edge of the network, evolving the gas distribution network from a one-way gas delivery mechanism to an interactive energy network that can deliver gas more safely and efficiently.

Featuring an internal shutoff valve, the Intelis meter automatically stops gas flow if a dangerous situation is detected, ensuring safety and reliability. This safety feature operates autonomously when the meter senses high flow or high temperatures, such as open fuel lines or fires.

Another feature built within the meter is its ability to alert the utility when it detects potential theft or meter tampering, further enhancing safety and revenue protection.

“With more than one million meters shipped across North America, Intelis is changing the value proposition for gas customers from metering and automation to enabling intelligence at the edge of the network,” said John Marcolini, senior vice president at Itron. “We are excited to work with our customers to transform the distribution network and ensure the safety of citizens and promote the well-being of people around the world. Together, we are delivering gas more safely and efficiently.”

Itron enables utilities and cities to deliver safely, securely and reliably critical infrastructure to communities in more than 100 countries. Its portfolio of smart networks, software, services, meters and sensors helps its customers manage electricity, gas and water resources for the people they serve.