HUOSTON, TEXAS: Broadband over power lines could reach Cy-Fair area in a few years

By Kentesheia Dockery , Staff Writer
08/04/2006

The ability to enhance communication systems, improve customer expectations and uphold timely maintenance isn't as distant a concept as it used to be.


The innovation of BPL, or broadband over power lines, could very well be the solution to technical difficulties as well as a gateway toward better service.

Consulting engineer William Armstrong, PE of CenterPoint Energy introduced BPL to the utility infrastructure committee of the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce on July 19.
Armstrong and others at CenterPoint Energy are hoping to change yesterday's method of implementation by taking advantage of quick moving technology of bandwidths through power lines.

"Right now, if the lights go out, utility doesn't know," Armstrong said.

So, a proposition is underway and different locations across the nation, to super impose a utility grid into a communications system providing a window into everything on the system. It would benefit an entire eco-system for residential communities, businesses, manufacturers and utilities, he said. At some point, people would be able to access the internet by simply plugging in a laptop or computer into the nearest wall outlet. Manufacturers of "smart" technology are mindful of BPL because many more customers will result from having more access to easy programming.

Incorporating BPLs would also mean less expenditure for utility companies. Gas, electric and even water meter readers can largely cease door-to-door handlings, weather delays, safety concerns and travel time by merely logging into a database. Additionally, customers can access their monthly bill statements online and even keep track of it until then.
In all, Armstrong said BPL, also called power line communication, is customer-friendly, offers faster responses and more advantages - all from using a tool about the size of a lunchbox.

"This is three, four, five years in the making," Armstrong said. "It's not a question of will we do it, but how fast."

BPL could eliminate a lot of things, he said, especially at apartment complexes, where a lot of groundwork is necessary to read meters and tenants change rapidly.

Currently, three substations are being supported, including two in areas of Bellaire, and one in Greenspoint. An additional substation in Bellaire is slated for the near future.

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BROADBAND over POWER LINES: new 200 Mbps Technology !!!