Itron has been selected by ERDF, electricity distribution network operator in France for its Linky smart grid program.
Itron will supply of Linky smart meters for the first phase of the program. The Linky project is introduced to improve electricity distribution in France through an intelligent metering and communications network.
Itron will supply 1.2 – 1.6 million of Linky smart meters to be deployed by ERDF for the first phase of the program from September 2015 through the end of 2016, according to a Linky pilot project in which Itron was a leading participant.
In total, ERDF will replace 35 million meters, according to the EU directive for 80 percent of meters to be smart by 2020.
With the help of Linky Smart meters, consumers can daily monitor the consumption of electricity and manage their expenses. Easy and fast remote readings and simple directions are followed.
The Linky smart meters helps to transmit data and perform remote operations to enable integration of renewables, diverse tariff implementation and improved outage management. It allows data to be exchanged constantly on the intelligent electricity network that will optimize energy infrastructure to reduce peak consumption and increase efficiency.
This contract marks a milestone for ERDF and launches the industrial phase of the Linky Program. Its success is based on ERDF partnership with all involved industrial players. With these smart meters, ERDF enters the digital revolution and supports the deployment of smart grids in France, says, Bernard Lassus, director, ERDF Linky Program.
Smart grid technology will play an important role in helping ERDF improve electricity delivery, so it can operate more efficiently, save energy and better manage energy resources, said, Mark de Vere White, president, electricity business line, Itron.