IBM targets electricity providers with smart grid communications services

Stephen Withers
Wednesday, 22 September 2010 10:30

IT Industry - Strategy

IBM has announced a consulting, design and implementation service to help electricity utilities with the transformation to smart grids.

The service will focus on the communications aspects of such projects. The idea is that data can be collected from sensors and smart meters, and then processed to improve service levels, allow more efficient operation, and meet regulatory requirements.

"IBM was among the first companies to recognise the benefits of marrying information technology with the electricity grid," said Guido Bartels, IBM's general manager for the energy and utilities industry, chairman of the GridWise Alliance.

"Given our experience with more then 150 smart grid projects around the world, we are now building on that leadership by providing the first comprehensive global communications services offering of its kind," he added.

Adrian Clark, smart grid manager at Energy Australia, said "A telecommunications backbone is the foundation for a smarter energy system," adding "An integrated and future-proof communications platform is a fundamental enabler of the smart grid."

IBM Australia yesterday hosted a briefing on the potential to use sensors and analytics to improve city infrastructure, but made no mention of the announcement.