IBM to implement €70m smart grid system for Malta

4 February 2009

The Maltese National Electricity and Water Utilities – Enemalta Corporation (EMC) and Water Services Corporation (WSC) – have selected computer technology giant IBM for a €70m, five-year agreement to design and deliver a nationwide smart grid implementation.

Working with IBM, Enemalta will transform key utility processes through the implementation of an integrated utility business solution, according to a statement.

The solution is designed to improve operational efficiency and customer service levels by introducing smart meters that allow clients to better manage consumption. Smart metering also enables restructuring of the billing process, improved customer relationship management and the introduction of e-services that further empower clients to serve their own customers.

The project is the first step in establishing an end-to-end electricity and water smart utility system. When complete, the multi-phased engagement is expected to completely transform the relationship between Maltese consumers and utilities suppliers, while enabling more efficient consumption of energy and water.

IBM will replace all 250,000 analogue electricity meters with new smart electronic devices. IBM will also integrate water meters and advanced IT applications, enabling remote monitoring, management, meter readings and meter suspensions.

‘This agreement will not just transform Enemalta’s metering operations but will help us introduce new back-office applications to provide an unprecedented customer relations service,’ said Enemalta’s CEO Ing. Karl Camilleri. ‘With the right infrastructure in place to distribute electricity on the national grid we are looking at ways to both optimize current operations, as well as open up potentially new untapped markets in the way we conduct our business operations.’

‘This agreement results from a comprehensive process to select a Smart Grid system that provides clear benefits to the Maltese community,’ added Guido Bartels, general manager Global Energy & Utilities Industry at IBM. ‘We see the Smart Grid as a critical enabler for economic growth on a global scale and it’s inspiring to see Malta take such a strong leadership position.’

Copyright © 2009 newnet

Tags: smart grid, smart metering

This story was published on Wednesday, February 4th, 2009 at 6:08 pm and is filed under Europe, companies, energy efficiency. You can follow any responses to article entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

One Response to “IBM to implement €70m smart grid system for Malta”

1. Malta Hotel Reviews says:

   14 March 2009 at 11:19 pm

   It’s a great idea to upgrade Malta’s meters. During the Summer especially there is huge load and many hotels finish without electricity too. Cool review of the current system.

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