ATLANTA, Sept. 1, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- Over the past few years, many utilities have adopted drive-by automated meter reading systems that helped improve meter reading efficiency and decrease costs. But as utilities slowly move away from back-to-basics strategies, they appear to be more interested in robust networks that can provide information that can lead to improved efficiencies related to areas such as customer service, outage management and distribution, says a new report from utility research leader, Chartwell, Inc.
Unlike mobile (drive-by) systems, both powerline carrier and proprietary wireless networks can provide daily information that can be used to develop better processes for various operational areas. Currently, about 34% of utilities say they use powerline carrier or wireless fixed-network technology, which is only slightly less than the 40% that use drive-by technologies, according to Chartwell's 2004 AMR survey of 119 utilities. However, more utilities say they are considering wireless networks or two-way PLC than drive-by systems, states Chartwell's new report, AMR Fixed Networks: Wireless vs. PLC. About 28% of utilities are considering fixed networks, 19% are considering two-way powerline carrier technologies and 17% are considering mobile, according to Chartwell's 2004 AMR survey, which was completed in July 2004.
But there is no silver-bullet fixed-network technology, concludes AMR Fixed Networks. Both system types boast applications where one or the other is appropriate. AMR Fixed Networks describes ways to determine whether a PLC or wireless network is the best fit for various utility circumstances.
The 103-page report includes five chapters of analysis, profiles of 11 fixed network vendors and 10 case studies, including updates on the ways Exelon and Duquesne Light use wireless fixed networks. A third new case study details the reasons Bangor (Maine) Hydro recently chose to deploy a two-way powerline carrier system.
AMR Fixed Networks: Wireless vs. PLC, which is part of Chartwell's Metering Research Series, is available for $595. Chartwell's Metering Research Series is the only unbiased and continuous research service devoted exclusively to the AMR industry. Annual series membership includes access to:
- more than 25 AMR-related reports;
- 9 to 10 new AMR-related reports released during the membership
term, most with at least two utility case studies;
- monthly intelligence reports on AMR trends and technologies; and
- past and current annual reports focusing on AMR surveys of 100-
plus utilities.
Membership in The Metering Research Series is $2,995. For more information about AMR Fixed Networks or The Metering Research Series, please contact Robin Roux at (800) 432-5879 or (404) 237-9099, or visit: (www.energylibrary.com).