WEL Networks Smart Homes Project a NZ First

MEDIA RELEASE

28 June 2009

WEL Networks Smart Homes Project a NZ First

 
The future of electricity is coming to the city of Hamilton, and it’s coming in the form of a wireless communications network linked to high-tech, smart electricity meters to 50 homes and businesses.

Smart electricity meters are the first significant advancement in electricity metering in nearly 30 years.  Installing meters at homes and businesses is the first stage in a long-term project that will eventually allow WEL Networks to monitor all parts of its network.  Plus, in time, consumers will be able to view their electricity usage via an in-home LCD display or secure website, so usage can be adjusted to control monthly power bills.

 WEL Networks CEO, Dr Julian Elder, says the $50,000 WEL Smart Homes pilot project, funded by WEL Energy Trust, is a first for New Zealand.

 “Consumers in a few other cities in New Zealand have had smart electricity meters installed in homes.  However, these installations have always been rolled out by electricity retailers to enable more accurate bills. 

“This is the first project of its type in New Zealand that is combining the benefits of smart meters with a communications network that allows continual monitoring of individual homes’ electricity usage and needs by an electricity distribution company to improve the service  - price and quality - offered to customers,” explains Dr Elder.

 
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