White papers
Simple, expert information.
Exclusively from the experts at Elster and EnergyAxis, our white papers can help you gain perspective on the many aspects of the Smart Grid.
Click on the title of the white paper to download a PDF copy to your computer.
AMI and DA convergence: benefits of growing your smart grid infrastructure with a multi-technology approach
by Sierra Energy Group
Utilities that adopt a multi technology approach for their AMI/DA communications platforms can reduce risk by future-proofing their smart grid investments and ensuring operational longevity.
This white paper explores the multi technology approach and the significant benefits it offers to utilities.
RF safety and the EnergyAxis System
There is a growing concern in the industry, especially on the part of energy consumers, over the potential health impact of smart meter radio communications. This paper is to assist Elster's EnergyAxis users in understanding matters related to radio frequency safety with regard to the EnergyAxis mesh local area network used in EnergyAxis smart meter endpoints.
AMI and DA convergence: enabling energy savings through voltage conservation
by Sierra Energy Group
The convergence of AMI and distribution automation is providing opportunities for beneficial power grid modernization. In no application is the potential for both utility and customer benefit greater than voltage conservation to reduce energy use on power distribution systems. This paper provides an overview of how Elster's EnergyAxis System facilitates voltage conservation — a capability not available from many competing systems.
Deterrent and detection of smart grid meter tampering and theft of electricity, water, or gas
by Jeff McCullough
This paper examines some of the concerns raised about tampering of smart grid meters to under-report consumption and describes measures currently provided by Elster meters and the EnergyAxis System to detect and/or prevent theft, tamper, and loss of electricity, water, or gas.
AMI & the smart grid: key points for utility executives
by David G. Hart, Ph.D.
AMI is not the smart grid but rather an integral part of it. This paper will focus on how AMI systems are impacting utilities, some trends we see in the market place, and some of the concerns we have as the industry evolves.
Exploring the green side of AMI in the smart grid
by Barbara Lehenbauer
What do “green” and “socially responsible” really mean when it comes to choosing and implementing AMI and smart grid solutions?
To help weigh the environmental advantages versus practical reality, this quick guide gives you a cradle-to-grave checklist of potential ways you can incorporate environmental and social responsibility into your smart grid program.
AMI security considerations
by Jeff McCullough
Given the new levels of automation and extended access to the grid enabled by AMI, issues have been raised concerning the potential of security gaps within smart grid deployments, with some
concerns pertaining specifically to existing and new AMI solution offerings. This paper examines some of the security concerns related to AMI systems and describes key preventative measures that can be taken against cyber security issues.
Every watt counts
by Robert Swiatkowski
The benefits of smart metering promise to deliver unparalleled return on investment to utilities. However, depending on the characteristics of the smart meter and the AMI system which is used, the benefits could quickly be eroded or negated by the watt burden of powering and operating the smart grid meters. When comparing one smart meter to another, does an additional watt of usage really matter? This article explains that there is a substantial difference in meter manufactures and why utilities should pay very close attention to this.
To download the Elster Watt Savings Calculator: click here
Applications
of transformer and feeder monitoring with AGInodes
by Carl LaPlace with contributions by Brent Hughes, PE
Advanced grid infrastructure (AGI) technology advances the performance
and capabilities of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI). With the
additional of these nodes, AMI evolves to become AGI. AGInodes can
be added to existing AMI deployments or included from the beginning
in a new AMI business case. This white paper examines the revenue protection
value of transformer and feeder measurement nodes, as well as other
uses for the technology including asset management, outage management,
system planning and operations support. Also learn how these distribution-system
devices can fit seamlessly into an AMI system and leverage its communications
network to help utility professionals deploy an advanced grid infrastructure
(AGI), serving as a bridge between today’s limited legacy systems and
the intelligent grid of the future.
Realizing
the Smart Grid of the Future through AMI Technology
by Carl LaPlace and Robert W. Uluski, PE
AMI technology is a vital component within the smart grid of the future.
AMI technology provides utilities with a wealth of new information
that was not readily available with AMR technology or cost effective
with today’s distribution automation systems. AMI technology provides
information that can be used to optimize business operations, such
as system engineering, maintenance, customer service, and other business
operations. AMI systems also provide a ubiquitous communication infrastructure
that supports continual monitoring and remote control of power system
components and greatly improved visibility and optimal control of the
power system.
Mesh
Networks and Outage Management
by Raymond Kelley and Ron D. Pate
The two way communications infrastructure deployed as a part of AMI
(Advanced Metering Infrastructure) systems, coupled with smartmeter
endpoint capabilities, is providing an exciting opportunity for enhancement
of existing outage management system capabilities. RF mesh AMI
networks, one of the more popular AMI system configurations, offer
unique benefits in the support of outage management strategies. When
integrated with outage management systems, the data available from
the AMI system can be used to significantly improve utility responsiveness,
and work force utilization during outage conditions.
