Unison Wireless Communications Leads Global Roll Out

Unison Wireless Communications Leads Global Roll Out

Wednesday, 5 June 2013 – Local electricity distributor Unison Networks is leading the global electricity industry with the roll out of the fourth generation of Silver Spring Networks’ ‘eBridge’ distribution automation (DA) mesh radios across its network.

The mesh radios being installed across Unison’s electricity networks in Taupo, Rotorua and Hawke’s Bay provide an essential communication function as part of the establishment of the Company’s Smart Grid.

“Fast and reliable communication across our network is vital to delivering our Smart Grid vision.  Silver Spring’s networking technology enables real-time communication with network devices, as well as real-time monitoring of the status and quality of customer supply,” said Unison Group Chief Executive Officer, Ken Sutherland.

Unison’s Smart Grid encompasses the installation of automated technology in network devices such as substations, transformers and switches.  These ‘smart’ devices are then able to ‘talk’ to other devices, and can be monitored and operated remotely over UnisonFibre’s ultra-fast network in urban areas, and via wireless (radio) communication devices for rural and remote locations.

“Analog very high frequency (VHF) radios have long been used in the past for network communications, however they are a legacy technology, and Silver Spring’s latest generation of internet protocol (IP) mesh radios provide improved data transfer between network devices and Unison’s Control Room,” said Jaun Park, Unison Networks’ General Manager Network and Operations.

“In storm conditions, the narrow VHF channels get congested, delaying the transfer of information and instruction.  Moving to Silver Spring’s IP radio networking technology offers greatly improved data rates, enabling Unison to deliver enhanced reliability of supply, reducing outages for our customers through faster and more reliable communication.”

The installation of the next generation wireless technology also opens up future network communication options, with wireless radio used in a variety of utility automation including smart metering, street lighting and irrigation.
Unison has completed installation of over 40 radios in Taupo, and expects to complete installation across its three network regions by 2014.

ENDS

© Scoop Media