Itron has formed partnership with Exceleron Software to deliver smart payment solution to Jefferson Energy Cooperative, a member-owned energy cooperative with more than 30,000 customers in 11 Georgia counties.
Jefferson utilizes Itron’s cellular communications with MultiSpeak interface in conjunction with Exceleron’s MyUsage Prepaid to offer prepaid accounts to customers throughout its territory. Jefferson also utilizes Itron Services to manage and maintain the cellular communication solution.
Jefferson selected Itron solution after conducting a pilot test using cellular based technology at locations throughout its service territory. The test yielded a 100 percent success rate and proved the Itron technology’s ease of installation and operation, leading the cooperative to proceed with cellular communications.
With smart payment, Jefferson’s customers pay in advance for the electricity they will consume—and can afford. This simplifies the utility’s operations, reduces delinquent account risks and electricity diversion, and improves cash flow.
The solution delivers strategic deployment capabilities, reliable communications to remote areas, and remote disconnect and reconnect. The solution has increased member satisfaction and encouraged energy conservation, with an average decrease in consumption of approximately 13 percent for prepaid accounts.
“Smart payment is a great way for utilities to take control of energy management by balancing energy usage with the customer’s ability to pay,” said Jeff Carkhuff, vice president of global product management for electricity at Itron.
“Together with Exceleron, we are helping Jefferson Energy Cooperative deliver a solution that meets customer needs and ensures energy resources are used, paid for and managed efficiently,” Carkhuff added.
The collaboration with Itron will allow more utilities to reap the benefits prepaid solutions even without full AMI deployment, said Jeff Severs, COO of Exceleron Software.