Ambient Corp. has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Itron Inc. for integration of Itron smart grid and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) solutions, and components, with Ambient Smart Grid communications platform. The partnership enables a comprehensive and complete suite of smart grid functionality that Itron and Ambient will jointly market to utility customers.
Under terms of the agreement the companies will closely integrate Itron's leading advanced metering application for the smart grid, OpenWay, with Ambient Smart Grid communications technology to seamlessly connect legacy equipment as well as advanced smart energy applications to the nation's power grid.
Itron North America senior vice president and chief operating officer Philip Mezey said, "This is further proof that the OpenWay architecture is adaptable to multiple networks in support of smart grid deployments. Building the smart grid requires unprecedented collaboration. Our partnership with Ambient will help both our companies extend smart grid benefits to more energy users."
The agreement covers multiple technologies from both companies, including Itron ERT technology, used for automated meter reading (AMR); as well as Itron Fixed Network and OpenWay RFLAN communications. The partnership leverages Ambient's X-3000 node and AmbientNMS, key components of Ambient Smart Grid solutions, and network capabilities utilizing Verizon Wireless' cellular networks.