Comtrend announces 800,000 powerline adaptors shipped for IPTV applications in 2007
January 30, 2008 – Comtrend has announced that it shipped over 800,000 powerline adaptors for IPTV applications during 2007, following a strong increase in IPTV subscribers worldwide, and has called for interoperability as a key requirement for future powerline communications standards.
“The market for powerline-based IPTV distribution will keep growing as current deployments add subscribers and more operators launch IPTV services,” said Harold Fitch, Comtrend’s General Manager for Europe and South America. “Comtrend feels that the current strong growth rates powerline-based solutions are experiencing could increase even further if powerline technology is standardised. [However] if a standard does not guarantee interoperability it will fail to gain market traction and risk becoming irrelevant.”
Comtrend is soon to release a new version of its CT-902 Powerline Ethernet Adaptor that will enable a TR-069-compliant powerline adaptor. This will allow IPTV operators to remotely manage every node installed in the network, perform firmware upgrades and access logged data, among other features.
“Our service provider customers want to manage every node in the home network without modifying the home gateway or broadband router in any way,” added Mr. Fitch. “Every change made to a gateway or router could delay the deployment by several months, especially if the equipment has to be re-certified.”
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Sumitomo Electric Industries Chooses Intellon’s HomePlug® AV Powerline Solution for In-Home Distribution of NTT Neomeit Services in Japan
January 29, 2008 09:00 AM Eastern Time
Sumitomo Electric Industries Chooses Intellon’s HomePlug® AV Powerline Solution for In-Home Distribution of NTT Neomeit Services in Japan
Intellon HomePlug® AV-based ICs in Sumitomo Powerline Communications (PLC) Adapters Enable NTT Neomeit Services to Be Distributed Throughout Subscribing Japanese Homes via Existing Electrical Wiring
OCALA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Intellon Corporation (Nasdaq:ITLN), a leading provider of HomePlug®-compatible integrated circuits (ICs) for home networking, networked entertainment, broadband over powerline (BPL) and smart grid applications, announced that Sumitomo Electric Industries has chosen Intellon’s HomePlug AV-based IC to enable the in-home distribution of NTT Neomeit Corporation’s broadband services to subscribers in Japan. Intellon’s ICs are used in Sumitomo SN-200HP PLC adapters, which provide connectivity from the broadband access modem to other devices throughout the customer’s home using the existing electrical wiring.
Advanced technological features of the Intellon ICs not only allow NTT Neomeit subscribers to easily create an in-home network for their subscription services, but also provide a high degree of network security and service quality. This underlying technology enables the Sumitomo adapters to provide robust, 128-bit AES network security encryption while delivering a Quality of Service (QoS) that is deemed mandatory for supporting entertainment-grade VoD (Video on Demand) and other content distribution services.
“We are excited about providing a HomePlug AV-based connectivity solution in Japan for NTT Neomeit services,” said Yoshikazu Nishiwaki, general manager of the Broadband Equipment Development Division of Sumitomo Electric Industries. “Excellent performance is a requirement our service provider customers demand and we chose HomePlug-based solutions because they have demonstrated superior performance over other proprietary forms of powerline solutions. In particular, we chose Intellon because it is the leading provider of ICs based on the global HomePlug standard.”
“Intellon is proud to be working with Sumitomo to address Japan’s need for simple, secure and reliable whole-house, high-speed connectivity,” said Rick Furtney, president and COO of Intellon Corporation. “Our ICs deliver No New Wires® connectivity based on the global HomePlug standard and are being selected by manufacturers and service providers worldwide to meet the technical demands of whole-house broadband service deployments and media distribution.”
Intellon Powerline IC Applications
Intellon INT6000 and INT6300 HomePlug AV-based powerline ICs provide highly integrated solutions for both adapter and embedded powerline networking products. These ICs offer the speed and reliability necessary to drive next-generation home entertainment applications, including HD and SD video distribution, IPTV, networked digital video recorders (DVRs) and media center PCs. Additional broadband applications include whole-house audio, networked home security, Voice over IP (VoIP), networked and online gaming, extension and bridging of high speed wireless technologies and higher data-rate Internet access technologies such as ADSL2+, VDSL and fiber-to-the-home (FTTH).
Sumitomo Electric Industries Chooses Intellon’s HomePlug® AV Powerline Solution for In-Home Distribution of NTT Neomeit Services in Japan
Intellon HomePlug® AV-based ICs in Sumitomo Powerline Communications (PLC) Adapters Enable NTT Neomeit Services to Be Distributed Throughout Subscribing Japanese Homes via Existing Electrical Wiring
OCALA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Intellon Corporation (Nasdaq:ITLN), a leading provider of HomePlug®-compatible integrated circuits (ICs) for home networking, networked entertainment, broadband over powerline (BPL) and smart grid applications, announced that Sumitomo Electric Industries has chosen Intellon’s HomePlug AV-based IC to enable the in-home distribution of NTT Neomeit Corporation’s broadband services to subscribers in Japan. Intellon’s ICs are used in Sumitomo SN-200HP PLC adapters, which provide connectivity from the broadband access modem to other devices throughout the customer’s home using the existing electrical wiring.
Advanced technological features of the Intellon ICs not only allow NTT Neomeit subscribers to easily create an in-home network for their subscription services, but also provide a high degree of network security and service quality. This underlying technology enables the Sumitomo adapters to provide robust, 128-bit AES network security encryption while delivering a Quality of Service (QoS) that is deemed mandatory for supporting entertainment-grade VoD (Video on Demand) and other content distribution services.
“We are excited about providing a HomePlug AV-based connectivity solution in Japan for NTT Neomeit services,” said Yoshikazu Nishiwaki, general manager of the Broadband Equipment Development Division of Sumitomo Electric Industries. “Excellent performance is a requirement our service provider customers demand and we chose HomePlug-based solutions because they have demonstrated superior performance over other proprietary forms of powerline solutions. In particular, we chose Intellon because it is the leading provider of ICs based on the global HomePlug standard.”
“Intellon is proud to be working with Sumitomo to address Japan’s need for simple, secure and reliable whole-house, high-speed connectivity,” said Rick Furtney, president and COO of Intellon Corporation. “Our ICs deliver No New Wires® connectivity based on the global HomePlug standard and are being selected by manufacturers and service providers worldwide to meet the technical demands of whole-house broadband service deployments and media distribution.”
Intellon Powerline IC Applications
Intellon INT6000 and INT6300 HomePlug AV-based powerline ICs provide highly integrated solutions for both adapter and embedded powerline networking products. These ICs offer the speed and reliability necessary to drive next-generation home entertainment applications, including HD and SD video distribution, IPTV, networked digital video recorders (DVRs) and media center PCs. Additional broadband applications include whole-house audio, networked home security, Voice over IP (VoIP), networked and online gaming, extension and bridging of high speed wireless technologies and higher data-rate Internet access technologies such as ADSL2+, VDSL and fiber-to-the-home (FTTH).
Monday, January 28, 2008
Lebed.biz comments on ABTG.ob- a major breakout is imminent !!!
This was put out by a stock picking guru over this past weekend.
Ambient Corporation (OTC BB: ABTG) has developed patented Broadband over Powerline technology that is making energy use more efficient.
ABTG's largest shareholder is Consolidated Edison Inc. (NYSE: ED), one of the largest power companies in the country. Con Edison has $13 billion in annual revenues and they own 13.82% of ABTG. To see for yourself... click here and scroll down to "Stock Ownership of Management and Certain Beneficial Holders".
To the best of my knowledge... never before has a company as large as Con Edison purchased such a major position in a stock trading for only $0.041.
ABTG is also working with Duke Energy Corp. (NYSE: DUK), Firstenergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) and Entergy Corp. (NYSE: ETR).
These utility companies are going crazy over ABTG's technology due to immense pressure they are under to reduce global warming emissions.
33% of the 7,147.2MM metric tons of green house gases emitted by the U.S. each year comes from the generation of electricity.
ABTG's technology allows Americans to conserve the power used in their homes and reduce energy usage by an estimated 10%.
A nationwide 10% reduction in energy demand would help the environment more than expanding all current solar and wind energy production 10-fold.
A few months ago, Con Edison was praised by President Clinton for joining a coalition of power companies pledging to spend at least $500 million annually to reduce global warming emissions by 30 million tons over the next decade.
http://www.nypost.com
It is my belief that Con Edison is relying on ABTG's technology to play a major role in achieving this goal.
ABTG's technology creates a two-way, digital communications network that is distributed over power lines. It allows consumers to keep track of exactly how much energy their homes are using in real-time, along with the price they are paying.
It also allows the power companies to compensate the customer for the right to curtail certain loads (air conditioners, hot water heaters, dryers) for limited periods at peak load times.
Every day in the U.S. an average of 500,000 people experience power outages of at least two hours. ABTG's technology is expected to cut these outages by 80%.
In the event that there is a power outage, ABTG's technology enables timely and efficient service restoration without the need of any additional equipment to be deployed.
ABTG also allows the power companies to reduce their labor costs by providing new applications such as Automated Meter Reading and Remote Disconnect/Reconnect.
Vicis Capital, which manages approximately $2 billion, invested $2.5MM into ABTG last week bringing their total investment in the company up to $12.5MM. EarthLink Inc. (NASDAQ: ELNK), one of the largest Internet Service Providers (ISP) in the U.S., has also made an investment into ABTG.
I can't believe ABTG is trading for only $0.041! Take a look at its one month chart below...
In my opinion... a major breakout is imminent!
-----
Jonathan Lebed
Lebed.biz
Staff
Posted by Anonymous
Ambient Corporation (OTC BB: ABTG) has developed patented Broadband over Powerline technology that is making energy use more efficient.
ABTG's largest shareholder is Consolidated Edison Inc. (NYSE: ED), one of the largest power companies in the country. Con Edison has $13 billion in annual revenues and they own 13.82% of ABTG. To see for yourself... click here and scroll down to "Stock Ownership of Management and Certain Beneficial Holders".
To the best of my knowledge... never before has a company as large as Con Edison purchased such a major position in a stock trading for only $0.041.
ABTG is also working with Duke Energy Corp. (NYSE: DUK), Firstenergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) and Entergy Corp. (NYSE: ETR).
These utility companies are going crazy over ABTG's technology due to immense pressure they are under to reduce global warming emissions.
33% of the 7,147.2MM metric tons of green house gases emitted by the U.S. each year comes from the generation of electricity.
ABTG's technology allows Americans to conserve the power used in their homes and reduce energy usage by an estimated 10%.
A nationwide 10% reduction in energy demand would help the environment more than expanding all current solar and wind energy production 10-fold.
A few months ago, Con Edison was praised by President Clinton for joining a coalition of power companies pledging to spend at least $500 million annually to reduce global warming emissions by 30 million tons over the next decade.
http://www.nypost.com
It is my belief that Con Edison is relying on ABTG's technology to play a major role in achieving this goal.
ABTG's technology creates a two-way, digital communications network that is distributed over power lines. It allows consumers to keep track of exactly how much energy their homes are using in real-time, along with the price they are paying.
It also allows the power companies to compensate the customer for the right to curtail certain loads (air conditioners, hot water heaters, dryers) for limited periods at peak load times.
Every day in the U.S. an average of 500,000 people experience power outages of at least two hours. ABTG's technology is expected to cut these outages by 80%.
In the event that there is a power outage, ABTG's technology enables timely and efficient service restoration without the need of any additional equipment to be deployed.
ABTG also allows the power companies to reduce their labor costs by providing new applications such as Automated Meter Reading and Remote Disconnect/Reconnect.
Vicis Capital, which manages approximately $2 billion, invested $2.5MM into ABTG last week bringing their total investment in the company up to $12.5MM. EarthLink Inc. (NASDAQ: ELNK), one of the largest Internet Service Providers (ISP) in the U.S., has also made an investment into ABTG.
I can't believe ABTG is trading for only $0.041! Take a look at its one month chart below...
In my opinion... a major breakout is imminent!
-----
Jonathan Lebed
Lebed.biz
Staff
Posted by Anonymous
Transelectric rolls out 460km PLC network
Monday, 28 January 2008
Ecuadorian power utility Transelectric has inaugurated a 460km broadband network using power line communications (PLC), reports BNamericas quoting local newspaper El Comercio. The USD28 million fibre-optic cable network is overlaid on Transelectric’s electricity lines covering the Azuay, El Oro and Loja provinces in the south of the country, and is capable of providing triple-play voice, internet/data and video services. Ecuador began rolling out telecoms infrastructure over power lines in 2003 with 1,900km of fibre-optic cabling serve Quito, Santo Domingo, Riobamba and Ambato. Companies using the infrastructure include state-run fixed line operators Andinatel and Pacifictel. In February Transelectric’s long-distance network is scheduled to be connected to international cable links between Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.
Ecuadorian power utility Transelectric has inaugurated a 460km broadband network using power line communications (PLC), reports BNamericas quoting local newspaper El Comercio. The USD28 million fibre-optic cable network is overlaid on Transelectric’s electricity lines covering the Azuay, El Oro and Loja provinces in the south of the country, and is capable of providing triple-play voice, internet/data and video services. Ecuador began rolling out telecoms infrastructure over power lines in 2003 with 1,900km of fibre-optic cabling serve Quito, Santo Domingo, Riobamba and Ambato. Companies using the infrastructure include state-run fixed line operators Andinatel and Pacifictel. In February Transelectric’s long-distance network is scheduled to be connected to international cable links between Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Allterra, Volta River Authority begin BPL tests
Wednesday, 23 January 2008
Ghanaian broadband access provider Allterra Gridline Communications Ghana Limited, has begun piloting broadband over powerline (BPL) technology in the country in collaboration with the Volta River Authority, The Business Desk reports. The newcomer is conducting the two-month pilot trial in the Volta Hotel in Akosombo, demonstrating the technology’s ability to provide video-on-demand (VoD), voice-over-IP (VoIP), and high speed internet access over the utility’s municipal power grid.
Allterra says it has already achieved positive transmission rates across medium- to low-voltage lines and hopes to distribute broadband internet access to business users via its patented plug-and-play modems. The operator claims its service will be ‘significantly cheaper’ to deploy than rival DSL, satellite and T1 connections and will allow for connection speeds of up to 200Mbps. Allterra hopes the new technology will play an instrumental role in tackling the digital divide, and hopes to work with NGOs, industry leaders, and local utilities to achieve this.
Ghanaian broadband access provider Allterra Gridline Communications Ghana Limited, has begun piloting broadband over powerline (BPL) technology in the country in collaboration with the Volta River Authority, The Business Desk reports. The newcomer is conducting the two-month pilot trial in the Volta Hotel in Akosombo, demonstrating the technology’s ability to provide video-on-demand (VoD), voice-over-IP (VoIP), and high speed internet access over the utility’s municipal power grid.
Allterra says it has already achieved positive transmission rates across medium- to low-voltage lines and hopes to distribute broadband internet access to business users via its patented plug-and-play modems. The operator claims its service will be ‘significantly cheaper’ to deploy than rival DSL, satellite and T1 connections and will allow for connection speeds of up to 200Mbps. Allterra hopes the new technology will play an instrumental role in tackling the digital divide, and hopes to work with NGOs, industry leaders, and local utilities to achieve this.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
French Service Provider Free Selects Intellon-Based HomePlug AV Powerline Connectivity for Customer-Installable Triple Play Service Packages
Wednesday January 23, 1:00 pm ET
Intellon's HomePlug(R) AV-compliant ICs Will Be Bundled with 100 Percent of Free's Self-Install Service Packs to Enable Delivery of Voice, Data and Internet Protocol Television Through the Electrical Wiring in Customers' Homes
OCALA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Intellon Corporation (Nasdaq:ITLN - News), a leading provider of HomePlug-compatible integrated circuits (ICs) for home networking, networked entertainment, broadband over powerline (BPL) and smart grid applications, today announced that Free, a leading French broadband service provider, has selected Intellon’s HomePlug AV-compliant powerline communication ICs for use in all Freebox HD service packages in France. Freebox HD provides triple play services that include voice, data and Internet Protocol television (IPTV).
Free has embedded Intellon’s INT6300 ICs into unique dual-purpose power supplies that provide both power and powerline communications for the Freebox HD gateways and set-top boxes used in the triple play service packages. By embedding Intellon’s ICs into the power supplies for the units, Free was able to add powerline communications without redesigning the Freebox gateways or set-top boxes, thus reducing engineering costs and speeding time to market. With this simple approach, the Intellon-enabled power supply units send Free’s IPTV programming from the Freebox broadband gateway over the customer’s existing electrical wiring to the Freebox set-top box next to the customer’s television set.
In selecting a triple play connectivity solution, Free needed carrier-grade performance combined with easy plug-and-play installation. The Intellon-based solution met these requirements in testing trials Free conducted.
“In addition to providing our customers aggressive pricing for triple play services, we wanted to deliver a high quality video experience by adding the newest technology,” said Maxime Lombardini, Chief Executive Officer of Iliad (Free) . “Our tests revealed that the Intellon HomePlug AV solution was easy to install and reliably delivered high quality IPTV content. As a result, we wanted to get those benefits into our customers’ hands as soon as possible.”
“We are delighted that Free chose Intellon’s HomePlug AV technology over other solutions they tested,” said Rick Furtney, COO and President of Intellon Corporation. “Our HomePlug AV-compliant INT6000 and INT6300 ICs support simple and secure connectivity for video, data and voice applications throughout the home, making life easier for service providers and their customers.”
Intellon Powerline IC Applications
Intellon INT6000 and INT6300 HomePlug AV-based powerline ICs provide highly integrated solutions for both adapter and embedded powerline networking products. These ICs offer the speed and reliability necessary to drive next-generation home entertainment applications, including HD and SD video distribution, IPTV, networked digital video recorders (DVRs) and media center PCs. Additional broadband applications include whole-house audio, networked home security, Voice over IP (VoIP), networked and online gaming, extension and bridging of high speed wireless technologies and higher data-rate Internet access technologies such as ADSL2+, VDSL and fiber-to-the-home (FTTH).
Intellon's HomePlug(R) AV-compliant ICs Will Be Bundled with 100 Percent of Free's Self-Install Service Packs to Enable Delivery of Voice, Data and Internet Protocol Television Through the Electrical Wiring in Customers' Homes
OCALA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Intellon Corporation (Nasdaq:ITLN - News), a leading provider of HomePlug-compatible integrated circuits (ICs) for home networking, networked entertainment, broadband over powerline (BPL) and smart grid applications, today announced that Free, a leading French broadband service provider, has selected Intellon’s HomePlug AV-compliant powerline communication ICs for use in all Freebox HD service packages in France. Freebox HD provides triple play services that include voice, data and Internet Protocol television (IPTV).
Free has embedded Intellon’s INT6300 ICs into unique dual-purpose power supplies that provide both power and powerline communications for the Freebox HD gateways and set-top boxes used in the triple play service packages. By embedding Intellon’s ICs into the power supplies for the units, Free was able to add powerline communications without redesigning the Freebox gateways or set-top boxes, thus reducing engineering costs and speeding time to market. With this simple approach, the Intellon-enabled power supply units send Free’s IPTV programming from the Freebox broadband gateway over the customer’s existing electrical wiring to the Freebox set-top box next to the customer’s television set.
In selecting a triple play connectivity solution, Free needed carrier-grade performance combined with easy plug-and-play installation. The Intellon-based solution met these requirements in testing trials Free conducted.
“In addition to providing our customers aggressive pricing for triple play services, we wanted to deliver a high quality video experience by adding the newest technology,” said Maxime Lombardini, Chief Executive Officer of Iliad (Free) . “Our tests revealed that the Intellon HomePlug AV solution was easy to install and reliably delivered high quality IPTV content. As a result, we wanted to get those benefits into our customers’ hands as soon as possible.”
“We are delighted that Free chose Intellon’s HomePlug AV technology over other solutions they tested,” said Rick Furtney, COO and President of Intellon Corporation. “Our HomePlug AV-compliant INT6000 and INT6300 ICs support simple and secure connectivity for video, data and voice applications throughout the home, making life easier for service providers and their customers.”
Intellon Powerline IC Applications
Intellon INT6000 and INT6300 HomePlug AV-based powerline ICs provide highly integrated solutions for both adapter and embedded powerline networking products. These ICs offer the speed and reliability necessary to drive next-generation home entertainment applications, including HD and SD video distribution, IPTV, networked digital video recorders (DVRs) and media center PCs. Additional broadband applications include whole-house audio, networked home security, Voice over IP (VoIP), networked and online gaming, extension and bridging of high speed wireless technologies and higher data-rate Internet access technologies such as ADSL2+, VDSL and fiber-to-the-home (FTTH).
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Icron and DS2 collaborate on interactive PC to TV application- in home environment over powerline
Solution extends USB 2.0 and Video functions from PC to TV in home environment over powerline
BURNABY, B.C., January 4, 2008 - Icron Technologies Corporation (TSX Venture: IT), the developers of ExtremeUSB, and DS2 a world leader in power line technology announced the signing of a MoU (memorandum of understanding) whereby Icron will be integrating its ExtremeUSB into a platform designed to seamlessly connect the PC to TV and deliver interactive content to the living room via DS2’s power line technology. The powerline technology is embedded using a modular solution from Delta Electronics, the world’s leading manufacturer of power supplies and powerline communications components and products.
The initial platform extends USB 2.0 and PC video to the TV over power line networking technology. In this solution, the PC which is normally situated in a home office is used as the central media server and the TV, which is generally situated in the family room, is the center of entertainment. Its purpose is to provide an economical, convenient plug and play means for home users to access the Internet and all its interactive content on the TV without having to have another PC by the TV.
A joint demonstration of the solution will be shown at the DS2 booth at CES Booth # 20656, South Hall 2. The demonstration will show how easily power line can be integrated into existing networking applications. In this case, Delta Electronics modular solution implementing DS2's Aitana chipset technology was easily integrated into Icron's ExtemeUSB solution, minimizing development resources and resulting in a very cost-effective solution.
“These solutions provide the lowest cost plug and play solution for accessing the content from the PC in your home office, and delivering it to the TV in the family room.” stated Robert Eisses, President and CEO of Icron Technologies. “It really is the simplest way to access PC content using your TV as the monitor, and all the standard USB devices as your input/output devices, without having to purchase another PC to sit in your family room and deal with the associated networking issues. This represents a significant opportunity for Icron, and is the first of many solutions planned for the home connectivity market.”
“DS2 powerline technology excels at multimedia applications and we are delighted to work with Icron to deliver the first powerline communication solution to extend USB 2.0 and PC video functions to the TV anywhere in the home and are looking forward to demonstrating this at CES”. commented Jorge Blasco, CEO of DS2.
"High performance turnkey Powerline technology is the missing puzzle that the market has been looking for!” said Amy Lin, Senior Director of Global Sales and Marketing for Delta Electronics Magnetics and Microwave Business Unit. “Now we can just plug it in and start to enjoy the uncompromising signal quality synchronously. We will continue to co-work with DS2 to offer dynamic and innovative Powerline solutions for all applications in all industries."
Under this agreement Icron and DS2 will cooperate in the product development of this solution expected to be released in 2008 for an initial customer in China. Terms of the agreement, including the name of the partner were not announced for competitive reasons.
BURNABY, B.C., January 4, 2008 - Icron Technologies Corporation (TSX Venture: IT), the developers of ExtremeUSB, and DS2 a world leader in power line technology announced the signing of a MoU (memorandum of understanding) whereby Icron will be integrating its ExtremeUSB into a platform designed to seamlessly connect the PC to TV and deliver interactive content to the living room via DS2’s power line technology. The powerline technology is embedded using a modular solution from Delta Electronics, the world’s leading manufacturer of power supplies and powerline communications components and products.
The initial platform extends USB 2.0 and PC video to the TV over power line networking technology. In this solution, the PC which is normally situated in a home office is used as the central media server and the TV, which is generally situated in the family room, is the center of entertainment. Its purpose is to provide an economical, convenient plug and play means for home users to access the Internet and all its interactive content on the TV without having to have another PC by the TV.
A joint demonstration of the solution will be shown at the DS2 booth at CES Booth # 20656, South Hall 2. The demonstration will show how easily power line can be integrated into existing networking applications. In this case, Delta Electronics modular solution implementing DS2's Aitana chipset technology was easily integrated into Icron's ExtemeUSB solution, minimizing development resources and resulting in a very cost-effective solution.
“These solutions provide the lowest cost plug and play solution for accessing the content from the PC in your home office, and delivering it to the TV in the family room.” stated Robert Eisses, President and CEO of Icron Technologies. “It really is the simplest way to access PC content using your TV as the monitor, and all the standard USB devices as your input/output devices, without having to purchase another PC to sit in your family room and deal with the associated networking issues. This represents a significant opportunity for Icron, and is the first of many solutions planned for the home connectivity market.”
“DS2 powerline technology excels at multimedia applications and we are delighted to work with Icron to deliver the first powerline communication solution to extend USB 2.0 and PC video functions to the TV anywhere in the home and are looking forward to demonstrating this at CES”. commented Jorge Blasco, CEO of DS2.
"High performance turnkey Powerline technology is the missing puzzle that the market has been looking for!” said Amy Lin, Senior Director of Global Sales and Marketing for Delta Electronics Magnetics and Microwave Business Unit. “Now we can just plug it in and start to enjoy the uncompromising signal quality synchronously. We will continue to co-work with DS2 to offer dynamic and innovative Powerline solutions for all applications in all industries."
Under this agreement Icron and DS2 will cooperate in the product development of this solution expected to be released in 2008 for an initial customer in China. Terms of the agreement, including the name of the partner were not announced for competitive reasons.
CURRENT Deploys the First Real-Time Utility Home Area Network (HAN) in the Nation
Provides for real-time dispatching and verification of demand response
using Oncor's Dallas Smart Grid System
GERMANTOWN, Md., Jan. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- CURRENT Group, LLC announces
the deployment of the nation's first high-speed utility home area network
(HAN) using programmable communicating thermostats (PCTs) and load control
switches communicating over the Smart Grid deployed for Oncor Electric
Delivery Company in Dallas, Texas. The system communicates demand response
requests and other critical information from the utility to the customer
and verifies the results of the requests, all in real-time. This unique
solution will be used initially by retail electric providers Direct Energy,
Reliant Energy and TXU Energy as part of a joint collaborative effort by
the Center for the Commercialization of Electric Technologies (CCET) to
bring innovative technologies to Texas.
"The CURRENT Smart Grid(TM) solution allows consumers to participate in
programs designed to reduce the cost or environmental impact of electric
usage and for the utility to verify in real-time that usage has actually
declined, thus allowing the use of less generation with the resulting
reduction in emissions," said Tom Casey, Chief Executive Officer of
CURRENT. "These capabilities, along with our announcement on underground
cable fault detection, show how the CURRENT Smart Grid solution is solving
real problems of utilities that are not solved by AMI systems."
Real-time load control has the greatest value of any type of demand
response, especially in unexpectedly tight market conditions, according to
a 2007 Brattle Group report. Using data from a heat wave in the
Mid-Atlantic market, PJM Interconnection, a regional transmission
organization in that region, estimated that use of real-time curtailment of
power would save more than $650 million in energy cost over just one week.
CURRENT's system uses a high-speed broadband over power line (BPL)
network to communicate from the utility control center into the home to
PCTs and load control switches from CURRENT's partner, Corporate Systems
Engineering, as well as to any other Internet based devices such as
computers or in-home displays.
"The use of BPL enables a whole ecosystem of new Internet enabled
devices and services," said Steve Taylor, president of Corporate Systems
Engineering. "The system is easy to interface with, and reaches throughout
the home."
With a customer's permission, the temperature at the thermostat can be
adjusted automatically from the utility control center during periods of
high electricity demand. In the future, appliances and other devices will
be enabled to respond automatically to energy savings commands. Just as
importantly, the use of a high-speed network and CURRENT's CURRENTLook(R)
DR software allow for real-time verification of the results of demand
response, eliminating any uncertainty as to whether the requested demand
response actually occurred. Combined with CURRENT's sensing capabilities
throughout the distribution grid, demand response strategies can even be
targeted at the individual substation, feeder or even transformer to lower
load when distribution equipment problems are detected. For the first time,
utilities will know of equipment issues and have the ability to reduce load
to prevent outages while dispatching crews to fix the problem.
using Oncor's Dallas Smart Grid System
GERMANTOWN, Md., Jan. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- CURRENT Group, LLC announces
the deployment of the nation's first high-speed utility home area network
(HAN) using programmable communicating thermostats (PCTs) and load control
switches communicating over the Smart Grid deployed for Oncor Electric
Delivery Company in Dallas, Texas. The system communicates demand response
requests and other critical information from the utility to the customer
and verifies the results of the requests, all in real-time. This unique
solution will be used initially by retail electric providers Direct Energy,
Reliant Energy and TXU Energy as part of a joint collaborative effort by
the Center for the Commercialization of Electric Technologies (CCET) to
bring innovative technologies to Texas.
"The CURRENT Smart Grid(TM) solution allows consumers to participate in
programs designed to reduce the cost or environmental impact of electric
usage and for the utility to verify in real-time that usage has actually
declined, thus allowing the use of less generation with the resulting
reduction in emissions," said Tom Casey, Chief Executive Officer of
CURRENT. "These capabilities, along with our announcement on underground
cable fault detection, show how the CURRENT Smart Grid solution is solving
real problems of utilities that are not solved by AMI systems."
Real-time load control has the greatest value of any type of demand
response, especially in unexpectedly tight market conditions, according to
a 2007 Brattle Group report. Using data from a heat wave in the
Mid-Atlantic market, PJM Interconnection, a regional transmission
organization in that region, estimated that use of real-time curtailment of
power would save more than $650 million in energy cost over just one week.
CURRENT's system uses a high-speed broadband over power line (BPL)
network to communicate from the utility control center into the home to
PCTs and load control switches from CURRENT's partner, Corporate Systems
Engineering, as well as to any other Internet based devices such as
computers or in-home displays.
"The use of BPL enables a whole ecosystem of new Internet enabled
devices and services," said Steve Taylor, president of Corporate Systems
Engineering. "The system is easy to interface with, and reaches throughout
the home."
With a customer's permission, the temperature at the thermostat can be
adjusted automatically from the utility control center during periods of
high electricity demand. In the future, appliances and other devices will
be enabled to respond automatically to energy savings commands. Just as
importantly, the use of a high-speed network and CURRENT's CURRENTLook(R)
DR software allow for real-time verification of the results of demand
response, eliminating any uncertainty as to whether the requested demand
response actually occurred. Combined with CURRENT's sensing capabilities
throughout the distribution grid, demand response strategies can even be
targeted at the individual substation, feeder or even transformer to lower
load when distribution equipment problems are detected. For the first time,
utilities will know of equipment issues and have the ability to reduce load
to prevent outages while dispatching crews to fix the problem.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Boulder and Fort Collins are among Colorado cities that could be selected for the "smart-grid city."
Xcel, others to build test bed for new power
Boulder and Fort Collins are among Colorado cities that could be selected for the "smart-grid city." Other states are also in the running.
By Andy Vuong
The Denver Post
Article Last Updated: 01/17/2008 03:35:08 AM MST
A consortium of five companies led by Xcel Energy plans to spend $100 million to build a "smart-grid city" that will become a test bed for emerging power technologies.
A smart power grid, in general, would allow consumers and utilities to determine peak usage hours and change consumption habits and rates accordingly.
The group is considering several cities within Xcel's eight-state service region, including cities in Colorado, and will announce the selection in March.
The ideal city would be geographically concentrated and feature a population of roughly 100,000 that includes environmentally conscious customers interested in trying green products, Xcel spokeswoman Ethnie Groves said.
Cities in Colorado with about 100,000 residents include Arvada, Boulder, Centennial, Fort Collins, Greeley, Pueblo, Thornton and Westminster.
Groves wouldn't disclose any of the cities that are under consideration.
A smart grid would allow Xcel to charge higher rates during peak usage hours and lower rates during off-peak hours. Consumers could lower their monthly bills by performing power-consuming tasks, such as running the dishwasher, during off-peak hours.
"That's a pretty good way to take care of capacity issues," said Jon Caldara, president of Golden-based think tank Independence Institute. "I'm not a big fan of Xcel, but on this one, I think they're taking a step in the right direction."
Xcel plans to install in-home control devices in the smart-grid city to automate home energy use. The city would be outfitted with infrastructure to support renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. The city would also feature plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles that charge and discharge to the grid.
"Using the smart grid, we can provide innovative solutions to the environmental challenges facing all of us today," Xcel chief executive Dick Kelly said in a statement.
The building phase will begin in April.
The other companies in the consortium are Current Group, Accenture, Schweit zer Engineering Laboratories and Ventyx.
John Malone's Liberty Media is a large investor in Current, which offers broadband Internet over power lines. The Germantown, Md.-based company also provides sensing, monitoring and other communications technologies over power lines.
Current is a partner with Oncor Electric Delivery Co. on a smart-grid project in Dallas.
Other states in Xcel's service territory are Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas and Wisconsin. Xcel provides power to about 70 percent of Colorado residents.
Boulder and Fort Collins are among Colorado cities that could be selected for the "smart-grid city." Other states are also in the running.
By Andy Vuong
The Denver Post
Article Last Updated: 01/17/2008 03:35:08 AM MST
A consortium of five companies led by Xcel Energy plans to spend $100 million to build a "smart-grid city" that will become a test bed for emerging power technologies.
A smart power grid, in general, would allow consumers and utilities to determine peak usage hours and change consumption habits and rates accordingly.
The group is considering several cities within Xcel's eight-state service region, including cities in Colorado, and will announce the selection in March.
The ideal city would be geographically concentrated and feature a population of roughly 100,000 that includes environmentally conscious customers interested in trying green products, Xcel spokeswoman Ethnie Groves said.
Cities in Colorado with about 100,000 residents include Arvada, Boulder, Centennial, Fort Collins, Greeley, Pueblo, Thornton and Westminster.
Groves wouldn't disclose any of the cities that are under consideration.
A smart grid would allow Xcel to charge higher rates during peak usage hours and lower rates during off-peak hours. Consumers could lower their monthly bills by performing power-consuming tasks, such as running the dishwasher, during off-peak hours.
"That's a pretty good way to take care of capacity issues," said Jon Caldara, president of Golden-based think tank Independence Institute. "I'm not a big fan of Xcel, but on this one, I think they're taking a step in the right direction."
Xcel plans to install in-home control devices in the smart-grid city to automate home energy use. The city would be outfitted with infrastructure to support renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. The city would also feature plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles that charge and discharge to the grid.
"Using the smart grid, we can provide innovative solutions to the environmental challenges facing all of us today," Xcel chief executive Dick Kelly said in a statement.
The building phase will begin in April.
The other companies in the consortium are Current Group, Accenture, Schweit zer Engineering Laboratories and Ventyx.
John Malone's Liberty Media is a large investor in Current, which offers broadband Internet over power lines. The Germantown, Md.-based company also provides sensing, monitoring and other communications technologies over power lines.
Current is a partner with Oncor Electric Delivery Co. on a smart-grid project in Dallas.
Other states in Xcel's service territory are Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas and Wisconsin. Xcel provides power to about 70 percent of Colorado residents.
INDIA: Broadband over power line
21 January 2008
Broadband over power line can be looked upon as among the best options to enhance broadband penetration in India. For this to happen, collaboration between Internet Service Providers and power companies is essential. By Kushal Shah
In 2004, the US Federal government had shown interest in having an alternative for delivering Internet access, and now there are reports that the Government of India is thinking along the same lines. Both governments had focused on the same concept—Broadband over Power Line (BPL)—which is an old idea, but has not been exploited commercially. To put it in simple terms, BPL is nothing but being able to access the Internet using your power sockets rather than a phone line or coaxial cable.
This technology can open fresh scenarios, for both power companies and consumers, but before peeking into the nitty-gritty of BPL, the present Internet scenario in the country is worth evaluating. According to a recent report by the Internet and Mobile Association of India and IMRB International, the number of Internet users in India in the ‘claimed user category’ had touched 46 million in September 2007 up from 32.2 million in September 2006, which is a high 40% year-on-year growth. The statistics seem impressive but discouraging when weighed against approximately 250 million urban population and 1.1 billion national population. We need a technology that can spread deep across the length and breadth of the country with the help of existing systems.
More ...
http://www.expresscomputeronline.com
Broadband over power line can be looked upon as among the best options to enhance broadband penetration in India. For this to happen, collaboration between Internet Service Providers and power companies is essential. By Kushal Shah
In 2004, the US Federal government had shown interest in having an alternative for delivering Internet access, and now there are reports that the Government of India is thinking along the same lines. Both governments had focused on the same concept—Broadband over Power Line (BPL)—which is an old idea, but has not been exploited commercially. To put it in simple terms, BPL is nothing but being able to access the Internet using your power sockets rather than a phone line or coaxial cable.
This technology can open fresh scenarios, for both power companies and consumers, but before peeking into the nitty-gritty of BPL, the present Internet scenario in the country is worth evaluating. According to a recent report by the Internet and Mobile Association of India and IMRB International, the number of Internet users in India in the ‘claimed user category’ had touched 46 million in September 2007 up from 32.2 million in September 2006, which is a high 40% year-on-year growth. The statistics seem impressive but discouraging when weighed against approximately 250 million urban population and 1.1 billion national population. We need a technology that can spread deep across the length and breadth of the country with the help of existing systems.
More ...
http://www.expresscomputeronline.com
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Ambient Closes $2.5 Million Private Placement; Enabling Smart Grid Efficiencies Remains Company's Focus for 2008
Wednesday January 16, 9:30 am ET
Enabling Smart Grid Efficiencies Remains Company's Focus for 2008
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ambient Corporation (OTCBB: ABTG - News), a leader in power line communications technologies and platforms, today announced that it has closed on a private placement of $2.5 million in principal amount of its newly issued 8% Senior Secured three-year Convertible Note from the institutional investor in Ambient’s 2007 fundings.
The Company issued the secured Note, which requires no repayment of principal until the October 2010 maturity date, to Vicis Capital Master Fund LLC. Interest on the Note does not begin accruing until July 2008; with the first quarterly interest payment due in September 2008. This latest investment increases the total investment by Vicis to $12.5MM.
Ambient has used portions of proceeds from previous closings to successfully pay down the remainder of its debt incurred from a funding entered into in 2006. In eliminating the remainder of its short-term debt, Ambient’s next repayment of principal debt is not required until the October 2010 maturity date referenced above.
John J. Joyce, President and CEO of Ambient, commented, “Having the support of an investor who shares and supports our long-term commercial vision is essential for Ambient’s success. Ambient is on track to continue with our initiatives, and reach important milestones we have set for the next phase of our growth.”
Ambient is focused on enabling energy efficiencies through the deployment of communications infrastructures over utility distribution grids that provide a flexible and scalable multi-purpose platform. A pioneer in the power line communications technology industry, Ambient designs, develops and markets Smart Grid communications technologies and equipment.
Additional information relating to the Senior Secured Convertible Notes, the warrants, and related matters will be included in Ambient’s Current Report on Form 8-K, which Ambient will be shortly filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state. The offer and sale by Ambient of the securities described herein has not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, and such securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements.
About Ambient Corporation
Ambient is a pioneer in the power line communications technology industry and is engaged in the design, development and marketing of Smart Grid communications technologies and equipment. Ambient utilizes open, standards-based and proprietary technologies along with in-depth industry experience to provide best in class utility solutions for creating platforms for Smart Grid technologies. Headquartered in Newton, MA, Ambient is a publicly traded company (OTCBB: ABTG - News). Visit Ambient at www.ambientcorp.com.
Enabling Smart Grid Efficiencies Remains Company's Focus for 2008
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ambient Corporation (OTCBB: ABTG - News), a leader in power line communications technologies and platforms, today announced that it has closed on a private placement of $2.5 million in principal amount of its newly issued 8% Senior Secured three-year Convertible Note from the institutional investor in Ambient’s 2007 fundings.
The Company issued the secured Note, which requires no repayment of principal until the October 2010 maturity date, to Vicis Capital Master Fund LLC. Interest on the Note does not begin accruing until July 2008; with the first quarterly interest payment due in September 2008. This latest investment increases the total investment by Vicis to $12.5MM.
Ambient has used portions of proceeds from previous closings to successfully pay down the remainder of its debt incurred from a funding entered into in 2006. In eliminating the remainder of its short-term debt, Ambient’s next repayment of principal debt is not required until the October 2010 maturity date referenced above.
John J. Joyce, President and CEO of Ambient, commented, “Having the support of an investor who shares and supports our long-term commercial vision is essential for Ambient’s success. Ambient is on track to continue with our initiatives, and reach important milestones we have set for the next phase of our growth.”
Ambient is focused on enabling energy efficiencies through the deployment of communications infrastructures over utility distribution grids that provide a flexible and scalable multi-purpose platform. A pioneer in the power line communications technology industry, Ambient designs, develops and markets Smart Grid communications technologies and equipment.
Additional information relating to the Senior Secured Convertible Notes, the warrants, and related matters will be included in Ambient’s Current Report on Form 8-K, which Ambient will be shortly filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state. The offer and sale by Ambient of the securities described herein has not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, and such securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements.
About Ambient Corporation
Ambient is a pioneer in the power line communications technology industry and is engaged in the design, development and marketing of Smart Grid communications technologies and equipment. Ambient utilizes open, standards-based and proprietary technologies along with in-depth industry experience to provide best in class utility solutions for creating platforms for Smart Grid technologies. Headquartered in Newton, MA, Ambient is a publicly traded company (OTCBB: ABTG - News). Visit Ambient at www.ambientcorp.com.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
CES 2008: Panasonic to Boast Its Broadband over Powerlines
CES 2008: Panasonic to Boast Its Broadband over Powerlines - How can you plug in a network cable that's ending into a 110V socket?
By: Bogdan Botezatu, Hardware Editor
Panasonic has built its brand around its color television sets. This year's Consumer Electronics Show was the perfect place for the company to boast its new 150 inch plasma television, but that was not it. The company also showcased what few of us would have expected: gear for broadband-over-powerline, an experimental technology that uses the electrical wiring in a home or building to transmit data signals.
Panasonic has taken networking seriously and came up with some interesting goodies. Apart from the photo printer to be seen at the company's booth, there were plenty of Ethernet bridges, a USB hub, a Wi-Fi router, a WiMax router, and Ethernet phone adapters.
Although it is an interesting technology, Broadband-over-Powerlines did not catch up to the public in the United States. This may be the result of a psychological barrier that merely prevents people from plugging in a network cable that ends on the other side of a high-voltage socket. However, in 2006, the FCC passed a resolution endorsing the technology, and, one year later, the IEEE sketched the first specifications draft.
According to Robin Sweeten, group manager of strategic marketing for Panasonic, the previously encountered interferences have been smoothed out, so the only barrier that keeps the standard from becoming widely adopted is the consumer awareness.
"It's kind of a running joke that we've kept this kind of a secret here," Sweeten said. Panasonic was one of the most important members of the HomePlug Alliance, which is the most visible broadband-over-powerline promoter in the United States. Panasonic is almost the sole owner of the broadband-over-powerline market in Japan.
The United States tend to become receptive to the new methods of streaming high-definition content around their homes using powerline converters. Once this happens, Panasonic will come with another powerline goodies on the United States market. "That's the starting point: to give consumers the ability to link whatever they want in the house," Sweeten said.
By: Bogdan Botezatu, Hardware Editor
Panasonic has built its brand around its color television sets. This year's Consumer Electronics Show was the perfect place for the company to boast its new 150 inch plasma television, but that was not it. The company also showcased what few of us would have expected: gear for broadband-over-powerline, an experimental technology that uses the electrical wiring in a home or building to transmit data signals.
Panasonic has taken networking seriously and came up with some interesting goodies. Apart from the photo printer to be seen at the company's booth, there were plenty of Ethernet bridges, a USB hub, a Wi-Fi router, a WiMax router, and Ethernet phone adapters.
Although it is an interesting technology, Broadband-over-Powerlines did not catch up to the public in the United States. This may be the result of a psychological barrier that merely prevents people from plugging in a network cable that ends on the other side of a high-voltage socket. However, in 2006, the FCC passed a resolution endorsing the technology, and, one year later, the IEEE sketched the first specifications draft.
According to Robin Sweeten, group manager of strategic marketing for Panasonic, the previously encountered interferences have been smoothed out, so the only barrier that keeps the standard from becoming widely adopted is the consumer awareness.
"It's kind of a running joke that we've kept this kind of a secret here," Sweeten said. Panasonic was one of the most important members of the HomePlug Alliance, which is the most visible broadband-over-powerline promoter in the United States. Panasonic is almost the sole owner of the broadband-over-powerline market in Japan.
The United States tend to become receptive to the new methods of streaming high-definition content around their homes using powerline converters. Once this happens, Panasonic will come with another powerline goodies on the United States market. "That's the starting point: to give consumers the ability to link whatever they want in the house," Sweeten said.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
GridWiseTM Demonstration Projects- to test and speed adoption of new smart grid technologies
GridWiseTM Demonstration Projects
Published Thu, 2008-01-10 17:17 Energy
The Pacific Northwest GridWiseTM Demonstration projects is a regional initiative to test and speed adoption of new smart grid technologies that can make the power grid more resilient and efficient.
Through the GridWise Demonstration projects, PNNL researchers will gain insight into energy consumers' behavior while testing new technologies designed to bring the electric transmission system into the information age.
About 300 volunteers on Washington's Olympic Peninsula, in Yakima and in Gresham, Ore., will test equipment that is expected to make the grid more reliable, while offsetting huge investments in new transmission and distribution equipment.
A new combination of devices, software and advanced analytical tools will give homeowners more information about their energy use and cost, and researchers want to know if this will modify their behavior.
Approximately 200 homes will receive real-time price information through a broadband Internet connection and automated equipment that will adjust energy use based on price. In addition, some customers will have computer chips embedded in their dryers and water heaters that can sense when the power transmission system is under stress and automatically turn off certain functions briefly until the grid can be stabilized by power operators.
The year-long study is part of the Pacific Northwest GridWise Demonstration, a project funded primarily by DOE. Northwest utilities, appliance manufacturers and technology companies also are supporting this effort to demonstrate the devices and assess the resulting consumer response.
In the pricing study, automated controls will adjust appliances and thermostats based on predetermined instructions from homeowners. The volunteers can choose to curtail or reduce energy use when prices are higher. At any point, homeowners have the ability to override even their preprogrammed preferences to achieve maximum comfort and convenience.
Currently, most utilities charge a flat rate per kilowatt hour to homeowners, regardless of the wholesale cost of power or the cost of transmission and distribution. Pratt and other researchers will analyze how customers react to the real cost of delivering energy to their homes through the use of simulated electric bills and pretend money in a mock account that eventually will be converted into cash they get to keep.
If homeowners choose to reduce electric consumption at times of higher prices, the pretend money they save becomes real as they are issued a check from the GridWise program each quarter. Price conscious participants are expected to earn about $150 during the year and nobody will lose money during the experiment.
The communications, computer and control technologies provided by IBM, Invensys Controls and others can help customers become an integral part of power grid operations on a daily basis – and especially in times of extreme stress on the electrical distribution system.
In the portion of the demonstration focused on the smart appliance technology, a computer chip developed by PNNL is being installed in 150 Sears Kenmore dryers produced by Whirlpool Corporation.
The Grid FriendlyTM Appliance Controller chip could help prevent widespread power outages by turning off certain parts of an appliance when it senses instability in the grid – something that happens about once a day on average. Shutting down the heating element for a few minutes, while the drum continues to tumble, would likely go unnoticed by the homeowner but drastically reduces power demand within the home. Multiplied on a large scale, this instant reduction in energy load could serve as a shock absorber for the grid. It would give grid operators time to bring new power generation resources on-line to stabilize the grid – a process that usually takes several minutes.
At the end of the study, researchers will evaluate customers' reactions to the chip and their responses to the real-time pricing information to determine their acceptance. This will help government and industry to determine whether and how to best make the technologies more widely available to consumers in the future.
An earlier PNNL study shows that creating a smarter grid through information technology could save $80 billion over 20 years nationally by offsetting costs of building new electric infrastructure – the generators, transmission lines and substations that will be required to meet estimated load growth.
Published Thu, 2008-01-10 17:17 Energy
The Pacific Northwest GridWiseTM Demonstration projects is a regional initiative to test and speed adoption of new smart grid technologies that can make the power grid more resilient and efficient.
Through the GridWise Demonstration projects, PNNL researchers will gain insight into energy consumers' behavior while testing new technologies designed to bring the electric transmission system into the information age.
About 300 volunteers on Washington's Olympic Peninsula, in Yakima and in Gresham, Ore., will test equipment that is expected to make the grid more reliable, while offsetting huge investments in new transmission and distribution equipment.
A new combination of devices, software and advanced analytical tools will give homeowners more information about their energy use and cost, and researchers want to know if this will modify their behavior.
Approximately 200 homes will receive real-time price information through a broadband Internet connection and automated equipment that will adjust energy use based on price. In addition, some customers will have computer chips embedded in their dryers and water heaters that can sense when the power transmission system is under stress and automatically turn off certain functions briefly until the grid can be stabilized by power operators.
The year-long study is part of the Pacific Northwest GridWise Demonstration, a project funded primarily by DOE. Northwest utilities, appliance manufacturers and technology companies also are supporting this effort to demonstrate the devices and assess the resulting consumer response.
In the pricing study, automated controls will adjust appliances and thermostats based on predetermined instructions from homeowners. The volunteers can choose to curtail or reduce energy use when prices are higher. At any point, homeowners have the ability to override even their preprogrammed preferences to achieve maximum comfort and convenience.
Currently, most utilities charge a flat rate per kilowatt hour to homeowners, regardless of the wholesale cost of power or the cost of transmission and distribution. Pratt and other researchers will analyze how customers react to the real cost of delivering energy to their homes through the use of simulated electric bills and pretend money in a mock account that eventually will be converted into cash they get to keep.
If homeowners choose to reduce electric consumption at times of higher prices, the pretend money they save becomes real as they are issued a check from the GridWise program each quarter. Price conscious participants are expected to earn about $150 during the year and nobody will lose money during the experiment.
The communications, computer and control technologies provided by IBM, Invensys Controls and others can help customers become an integral part of power grid operations on a daily basis – and especially in times of extreme stress on the electrical distribution system.
In the portion of the demonstration focused on the smart appliance technology, a computer chip developed by PNNL is being installed in 150 Sears Kenmore dryers produced by Whirlpool Corporation.
The Grid FriendlyTM Appliance Controller chip could help prevent widespread power outages by turning off certain parts of an appliance when it senses instability in the grid – something that happens about once a day on average. Shutting down the heating element for a few minutes, while the drum continues to tumble, would likely go unnoticed by the homeowner but drastically reduces power demand within the home. Multiplied on a large scale, this instant reduction in energy load could serve as a shock absorber for the grid. It would give grid operators time to bring new power generation resources on-line to stabilize the grid – a process that usually takes several minutes.
At the end of the study, researchers will evaluate customers' reactions to the chip and their responses to the real-time pricing information to determine their acceptance. This will help government and industry to determine whether and how to best make the technologies more widely available to consumers in the future.
An earlier PNNL study shows that creating a smarter grid through information technology could save $80 billion over 20 years nationally by offsetting costs of building new electric infrastructure – the generators, transmission lines and substations that will be required to meet estimated load growth.
Telkonet Announces Conference Call to Introduce Next Generation 200 Mbps Product Line
Thursday January 10, 9:05 am ET
Telkonet Management Team to Discuss Revolutionary PLC Product Offering
GERMANTOWN, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Telkonet, Inc. (AMEX:TKO - News), the leading technology solutions provider for broadband networking, end-to-end service support and energy management, today announced its management team will hold a conference call to discuss the introduction of its new Gen5 200 Mbps powerline communications (PLC) product offering on January 14th at 4:15 pm (EST).
Jason Tienor, chief executive officer, commented, “Our Gen5 product is an important addition to our already strong product line. This new generation of product, which operates at 200 Mbps, provides our customers a feature-set that is unmatched in today’s marketplace. The implications of this product go well beyond basic PLC transport, as we have integrated this revolutionary technology into our other product initiatives in the areas of wireless high-speed Internet access, energy management, and electric utility substation monitoring. Please join us next week as we outline the capabilities of this revolutionary product line. After our presentation, the management team will be available to answer questions relating to this product and to all of our other growth initiatives.”
Interested parties will be able to listen to the call by clicking on the following link: http://viavid.net/dce.aspx?sid=00004A2B, or access at www.viavid.net. The call will also be available by dialing 480.629.9041 when calling within the United States or internationally. The conference ID is: 3831208. There will be a playback of the call available until January 17. To listen to the playback, please call 303.590.3030 when calling within the United States or internationally and enter pass code 3831208.
Telkonet Management Team to Discuss Revolutionary PLC Product Offering
GERMANTOWN, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Telkonet, Inc. (AMEX:TKO - News), the leading technology solutions provider for broadband networking, end-to-end service support and energy management, today announced its management team will hold a conference call to discuss the introduction of its new Gen5 200 Mbps powerline communications (PLC) product offering on January 14th at 4:15 pm (EST).
Jason Tienor, chief executive officer, commented, “Our Gen5 product is an important addition to our already strong product line. This new generation of product, which operates at 200 Mbps, provides our customers a feature-set that is unmatched in today’s marketplace. The implications of this product go well beyond basic PLC transport, as we have integrated this revolutionary technology into our other product initiatives in the areas of wireless high-speed Internet access, energy management, and electric utility substation monitoring. Please join us next week as we outline the capabilities of this revolutionary product line. After our presentation, the management team will be available to answer questions relating to this product and to all of our other growth initiatives.”
Interested parties will be able to listen to the call by clicking on the following link: http://viavid.net/dce.aspx?sid=00004A2B, or access at www.viavid.net. The call will also be available by dialing 480.629.9041 when calling within the United States or internationally. The conference ID is: 3831208. There will be a playback of the call available until January 17. To listen to the playback, please call 303.590.3030 when calling within the United States or internationally and enter pass code 3831208.
Statement on U.S. Senate Passage of Energy Bill
(H.R. 6 - Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007 )
by
William R. Moroney
President & Chief Executive Officer
Utilities Telecom Council
“We applaud the U.S. Senate’s passage of an energy package that can help utilities move into the next generation of service to the Nation. While this bill includes many forward-looking measures, UTC
especially is gratified that the Senate recognizes the importance of “smarter” electric grids and the digital technologies that will be necessary to make them happen. Telecom and IT technology is essential to enable smart grid applications for next generation utility infrastructure. This bill’s smart grid provisions will advance the efficiency, reliability, safety and security of utility services. On behalf of its hundreds of utility and stakeholder members, UTC looks forward to completion of this work in Congress and to Presidential approval before the end of this year.”
by
William R. Moroney
President & Chief Executive Officer
Utilities Telecom Council
“We applaud the U.S. Senate’s passage of an energy package that can help utilities move into the next generation of service to the Nation. While this bill includes many forward-looking measures, UTC
especially is gratified that the Senate recognizes the importance of “smarter” electric grids and the digital technologies that will be necessary to make them happen. Telecom and IT technology is essential to enable smart grid applications for next generation utility infrastructure. This bill’s smart grid provisions will advance the efficiency, reliability, safety and security of utility services. On behalf of its hundreds of utility and stakeholder members, UTC looks forward to completion of this work in Congress and to Presidential approval before the end of this year.”
Asoka Unveils New BPL Network Testing Tools at CES 2008
By Patrick Barnard, TMCnet Assignment Editor
Broadband over Powerline (BPL) solutions provider Asoka USA has reportedly introduced two new performance test tools, the PlugLink AV Performance Network Tester (PL8060-PNT) and the PlugLink Performance Network Tester (PL8050-PNT), at International CES (News - Alert) 2008, now underway in Las Vegas.
These network performance testers (and yes, it does still seem strange to call the electric cabling in your home a “network”) are used for checking bandwidth availability and packet loss, as well as any jitter and latency issues. The PL8060-PNT is a 200 Mbps HomePlug AV tester for data, voice, and IPTV, while the PL8050-PNT is an 85 Mbps HomePlug 1.0 tester for data and voice. The company claims that both testers “will significantly impact network installation and performance for powerline networking.”
“Being able to analyze and troubleshoot a network is critical for our customers,” said Dano Ybarra, CEO of Asoka, in a press release. “We are determined not only to deliver the best powerline networking products, but to provide our customers with tools that will enable them to install and integrate powerline networks with minimal hassle and the highest success rates.”
Both testers will be available for purchase in late 1Q08.
In addition, Asoka is showcasing its line of HomePlug powerline networking products -- adapters and routers which can be used to turn any electrical outlet in the home or office into an Internet port by utilizing existing electrical wiring.
Asoka made news on TMCnet in October when the company announced that it had received $7 million in venture capital from Venrock Associates and Storm Ventures (News - Alert). The company said the funds will be used “to advance adoption of Asoka's Powerline networking products and continue to advance the technology.” In addition the company announced that industry veteran Dano Ybarra has been selected to serve as the company's new Chief Executive Officer. Ybarra, who will oversee the advancement of Asoka’s BPL product lines and global expansion plans, will succeed founder and current CEO, T.K. Chan. Chan will continue to serve the company as CTO, and will now focus on product innovation.
Delivering broadband speeds of more than 200 Mbps, Broadband over Powerline (BPL) continues to be an attractive alternative to costly cabling in order to bring broadband services to residences, housing developments and small businesses in remote or rural areas. The technology’s slight limitations in terms of speed and capacity are arguably made up for by its tremendous convenience: With BPL, all a homeowner or apartment dweller needs is a BPL “modem” which can be plugged into any wall outlet in order to get Internet access and other broadband services, such as VoIP. There’s no need to wire (or re-wire) the entire residence with cable or DSL lines in order to deliver the services, as they are delivered over the last mile via electric powerlines which are already installed in the home. The technology is continuing to see growing adoption in Europe and other parts of the world, although in the U.S. it has seen much slower adoption rates. Whether the technology ultimately becomes ubiquitous or not, it is at least having the effect of forcing some service providers to extend their networks into remote or rural areas which might otherwise see penetration by companies delivering BPL technology.
Foster City Calif.-based Asoka offers a broad portfolio of BPL network products and solutions, including its PlugLink and PlugLAN product lines, which it claims deliver “the industry’s most robust and complete PLC product portfolio, making connectivity simple, secure, and effortless.” In addition to its line of residential/SOHO products, Asoka offers a commercial network solution suitable for commercial environments. This solution offers the same “plug-and-play” characteristics, while at the same time delivering remote manageability and billing/administration capabilities for hotels, hospitals, education facilities, apartments, dormitories and airports. In addition to its Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and Original Device Manufacturer (ODM) divisions, the company also offers private label solutions to its partners as well as consulting services.
For more information, visit www.asokausa.com.
Broadband over Powerline (BPL) solutions provider Asoka USA has reportedly introduced two new performance test tools, the PlugLink AV Performance Network Tester (PL8060-PNT) and the PlugLink Performance Network Tester (PL8050-PNT), at International CES (News - Alert) 2008, now underway in Las Vegas.
These network performance testers (and yes, it does still seem strange to call the electric cabling in your home a “network”) are used for checking bandwidth availability and packet loss, as well as any jitter and latency issues. The PL8060-PNT is a 200 Mbps HomePlug AV tester for data, voice, and IPTV, while the PL8050-PNT is an 85 Mbps HomePlug 1.0 tester for data and voice. The company claims that both testers “will significantly impact network installation and performance for powerline networking.”
“Being able to analyze and troubleshoot a network is critical for our customers,” said Dano Ybarra, CEO of Asoka, in a press release. “We are determined not only to deliver the best powerline networking products, but to provide our customers with tools that will enable them to install and integrate powerline networks with minimal hassle and the highest success rates.”
Both testers will be available for purchase in late 1Q08.
In addition, Asoka is showcasing its line of HomePlug powerline networking products -- adapters and routers which can be used to turn any electrical outlet in the home or office into an Internet port by utilizing existing electrical wiring.
Asoka made news on TMCnet in October when the company announced that it had received $7 million in venture capital from Venrock Associates and Storm Ventures (News - Alert). The company said the funds will be used “to advance adoption of Asoka's Powerline networking products and continue to advance the technology.” In addition the company announced that industry veteran Dano Ybarra has been selected to serve as the company's new Chief Executive Officer. Ybarra, who will oversee the advancement of Asoka’s BPL product lines and global expansion plans, will succeed founder and current CEO, T.K. Chan. Chan will continue to serve the company as CTO, and will now focus on product innovation.
Delivering broadband speeds of more than 200 Mbps, Broadband over Powerline (BPL) continues to be an attractive alternative to costly cabling in order to bring broadband services to residences, housing developments and small businesses in remote or rural areas. The technology’s slight limitations in terms of speed and capacity are arguably made up for by its tremendous convenience: With BPL, all a homeowner or apartment dweller needs is a BPL “modem” which can be plugged into any wall outlet in order to get Internet access and other broadband services, such as VoIP. There’s no need to wire (or re-wire) the entire residence with cable or DSL lines in order to deliver the services, as they are delivered over the last mile via electric powerlines which are already installed in the home. The technology is continuing to see growing adoption in Europe and other parts of the world, although in the U.S. it has seen much slower adoption rates. Whether the technology ultimately becomes ubiquitous or not, it is at least having the effect of forcing some service providers to extend their networks into remote or rural areas which might otherwise see penetration by companies delivering BPL technology.
Foster City Calif.-based Asoka offers a broad portfolio of BPL network products and solutions, including its PlugLink and PlugLAN product lines, which it claims deliver “the industry’s most robust and complete PLC product portfolio, making connectivity simple, secure, and effortless.” In addition to its line of residential/SOHO products, Asoka offers a commercial network solution suitable for commercial environments. This solution offers the same “plug-and-play” characteristics, while at the same time delivering remote manageability and billing/administration capabilities for hotels, hospitals, education facilities, apartments, dormitories and airports. In addition to its Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and Original Device Manufacturer (ODM) divisions, the company also offers private label solutions to its partners as well as consulting services.
For more information, visit www.asokausa.com.
Monday, January 07, 2008
GridWise Alliance Membership Continues to Grow as Congress Passes Landmark Energy Legislation
PR Newswire - January 07, 2008 8:00 AM ET
Seventeen New Companies Join National Coalition Working to Transform the Nation's Electric Power System
The GridWise(TM) Alliance announced today that seventeen leading companies and organizations have joined its efforts to transform the nation's electric power system. New members of the Alliance include ABB, Aegis Technologies, Alcatel-Lucent, Ambient Corporation, Arcadian Networks, Autodesk, CMEA Ventures, Constellation Energy, Consumers Energy, ESRI, Energy-Insights, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft Corporation, Serveron Corporation, SmartSynch, Tollgrade Communications and the Utilities Telecom Council.
"We are pleased to welcome these companies as members of the GridWise Alliance. They represent many of this nation's foremost organizations working in the areas of electricity generation, transmission and management." said Guido Bartels, Chairman of the GridWise Alliance and General Manager of IBM's Global Energy and Utilities Industry. "In an industry embarking on a major transformation, we are pleased to have the new member's creativity and innovation as part of the Alliance," he went on to say.
"By passing the new energy bill, Congress has signaled a significant shift in our nation's energy policy," said Tom Standish, GridWise Alliance Membership and Group President & Chief Operating Officer of the Regulated Operations at CenterPoint Energy. "These companies now join with the other Alliance members in building a broad consensus for implementing these concepts." he went on to say.
The GridWise Alliance was founded in 2003. Over the past four years the Alliance has advocated for change on both the national and state levels. Its members include utilities, IT companies, equipment vendors and new technology providers.
For more information about the GridWise Alliance, visit: www.gridwise.org.
Current members of the GridWise Alliance include: ABB, Accenture, Aegis Technologies, Alcatel-Lucent, Ambient Corporation Arcadian Networks, AREVA-T&D, Austin Energy, Autodesk, Beacon Power Corp., CenterPoint Energy, Cisco, ClickSoftware, CMEA Ventures, Con Edison, Constellation Energy, Consumers Energy, Current, Duke Energy, Duquesne Broadband, Energy-Insights, EnergySolve, Enporion, Environmental System Research Institute, GE, GridPoint, Inc., IBM, Ice Energy, Itron, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft Corporation, PJM Interconnection, RockPort Capital Partners, RuggedCom, SAIC, SAP, Sempra Energy, Serveron Corporation, Site Controls, SmartSynch, Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Tollgrade Communications, and the Utilities Telecom Council.
Seventeen New Companies Join National Coalition Working to Transform the Nation's Electric Power System
The GridWise(TM) Alliance announced today that seventeen leading companies and organizations have joined its efforts to transform the nation's electric power system. New members of the Alliance include ABB, Aegis Technologies, Alcatel-Lucent, Ambient Corporation, Arcadian Networks, Autodesk, CMEA Ventures, Constellation Energy, Consumers Energy, ESRI, Energy-Insights, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft Corporation, Serveron Corporation, SmartSynch, Tollgrade Communications and the Utilities Telecom Council.
"We are pleased to welcome these companies as members of the GridWise Alliance. They represent many of this nation's foremost organizations working in the areas of electricity generation, transmission and management." said Guido Bartels, Chairman of the GridWise Alliance and General Manager of IBM's Global Energy and Utilities Industry. "In an industry embarking on a major transformation, we are pleased to have the new member's creativity and innovation as part of the Alliance," he went on to say.
"By passing the new energy bill, Congress has signaled a significant shift in our nation's energy policy," said Tom Standish, GridWise Alliance Membership and Group President & Chief Operating Officer of the Regulated Operations at CenterPoint Energy. "These companies now join with the other Alliance members in building a broad consensus for implementing these concepts." he went on to say.
The GridWise Alliance was founded in 2003. Over the past four years the Alliance has advocated for change on both the national and state levels. Its members include utilities, IT companies, equipment vendors and new technology providers.
For more information about the GridWise Alliance, visit: www.gridwise.org.
Current members of the GridWise Alliance include: ABB, Accenture, Aegis Technologies, Alcatel-Lucent, Ambient Corporation Arcadian Networks, AREVA-T&D, Austin Energy, Autodesk, Beacon Power Corp., CenterPoint Energy, Cisco, ClickSoftware, CMEA Ventures, Con Edison, Constellation Energy, Consumers Energy, Current, Duke Energy, Duquesne Broadband, Energy-Insights, EnergySolve, Enporion, Environmental System Research Institute, GE, GridPoint, Inc., IBM, Ice Energy, Itron, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft Corporation, PJM Interconnection, RockPort Capital Partners, RuggedCom, SAIC, SAP, Sempra Energy, Serveron Corporation, Site Controls, SmartSynch, Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Tollgrade Communications, and the Utilities Telecom Council.
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