Atmel and Labelec SA Sign MOU for Development of PRIME-Compliant Smart Metering

Atmel Corp. and Labelec SA, a subsidiary of Electricidade de Portugal, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop smart grid solutions using the interoperative powerline communication (PLC) standard powerline intelligent metering evolution (PRIME) standard.

This MoU is the industry's first agreement between a distribution system operator (DSO) and technology provider for developing technology solutions using the PRIME standard.

"PRIME is a public, open and non-proprietary technology that is ideal for Portugal," said Miguel Ángel Sánchez Fornié, chairman, PRIME Alliance. "The collaboration between Atmel and Labelec SA will enable the successful roll-out of smart metering systems to this region and provide consumers the real-time, two-way capabilities demanded by the growing number of smart grid applications. We are delighted to see activities oriented to massive deployments that reinforce the use of a well proven technology."

Atmel and Labelec SA will collaborate on field tests and support to determine the best solutions using PLC PRIME technology for the Portuguese market prior to a mass smart grid roll-out in the short term. Portugal will potentially serve 7 million smart grid users.