KPN, Oxxio, IBM in wireless energy deal
KPN, Oxxio, and IBM said they will work together to provide wireless energy meters that can be read remotely.
In a news release Monday, the three companies said that all of Oxxio's 570,000 energy customers will be fitted with a digital meter at home which will automatically transmit information about gas and electricity consumption to a central computer.
KPN will be providing network connections, while IBM will be providing the information technology infrastructure, they said.
The datacommunications contract between KPN and IBM will be for two years, with an option to extend for another five years.
Erik de Heus, chief executive at Oxxio stated that "the powerful combination of Oxxio, IBM and KPN means that the "smart" meter can finally be deployed on a large scale. This will give the liberalized energy market a new boost, as well as allowing consumers to enjoy the advantages smart metering brings. The smart meter is a useful tool for consumers to stay in control of their energy costs as well as usage, helping to promote a more sustainable society."
Copyright 2005 by United Press International