Canadian utility New Brunswick Power is deploying Itron’s multi-purpose IoT technology to lay the foundation for a smart grid programme.

Washington-based Itron’s offering includes an IoT network and more than 350,000 Measurement Canada-approved distributed intelligence-enabled smart meters.

The project is a part of NB Power’s overarching smart grid programme, which aims to create a modern grid that is smarter, cleaner, more resilient and efficient. NB Power recently received regulatory approval for the project and work is due to begin later this year.

Providing electricity to more than 350,000 homes, businesses, hospitals and schools throughout New Brunswick, Canada, NB Power will deploy Itron’s advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) across its service territory to enhance customer service, reduce non-technical losses, and improve metering reading and billing.

“Smart meters are essential to building a smarter, cleaner, more reliable and efficient power grid and will bring important benefits to all New Brunswickers,” said Lori Clark, senior vice-president at NB Power. “As we move forward with this investment, we will do so with our customers’ expectations in mind. We look forward to working with Itron, an industry leader, as we bring smart meters to our customers.”

With the intelligently connected network and high-performance endpoints, the utility should be equipped to implement distributed intelligence-enabled applications to optimise grid performance, increase reliability and automate billing.

NB Power will also be able to analyse data in real time to manage risk proactively, reduce outages and respond to rapidly changing grid conditions.

“Our proven IoT is designed to cost-effectively improve operational efficiency, customer experience and grid reliability,” said John Marcolini, senior vice president at Itron. “With Itron’s multi-application network and smart devices, NB Power will lay the groundwork for its smart grid programme while preparing for the future with distributed intelligence that enables action and decision making at the edge of the network.”

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