The city of Newton, Mass., has selected Elster's evolution fixed network (evoNet) advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) solution for a system-wide AMI implementation and meter replacement, which will include the installation of new Elster evoQ4 solid state meters.
The evolution AMI system is a fully-automated wireless two-way smart metering technology solution that allows water utilities to obtain on-demand readings, real-time leak detection and tampering or backflow notification. With the evoNet system, utilities can efficiently implement management tools to reduce costs, improve customer service and begin to monitor interval consumption patterns for water, the company said.
"Water is a limited resource that needs to be protected and has become a critical issue for the entire nation," said Fred Russell, director of utilities for the city of Newton. "Elster's state-of-the-art evolution AMI system will allow the city of Newton to offer our residents more timely and accurate billing, help the city better detect water leaks and support increased water conservation.”
The city of Newton will replace nearly 25,000 meters on residential and commercial accounts over an 18-month period. The fixed network system, consisting of an array of evoGate central collectors, strategically located throughout the utility's service area, can acquire meter readings from customers and relay them back to the utility's billing office on a daily schedule or on-demand, allowing for more accurate water meter readings.
"The city of Newton has taken a proactive approach to better manage and conserve water resources for its residents," said Thomas Gwynn, president, Elster AMCO Water. "We are excited that the city of Newton, and other water utilities across North America, are selecting the flexibility and functionality of Elster's evolution AMI system to enhance conservation, empower customers and optimize billing. Elster's products and services are being selected to help address the key needs of the water utility market, and we look forward to working closely with the city of Newton on their evolution implementation.”
Source: PR Newswire
