Ericsson, a leading global technology communications and services provider, has joined hands with Landis+Gyr, a global provider of energy management solutions, to empower smart metering and smart grid projects in the Middle East.

As per the deal, Ericsson and Landis+Gyr will support utilities across the region with solutions that deliver key data required to cultivate active relationships with end-consumers, said a company statement.

The objective is to create smart energy networks that are able to manage large amounts of data. As a result, opportunities for efficient grid and energy consumption management, as well as seamless integration of micro-generated, renewable energy sources will be realised, it added.

Rajiv Sawhney, the managing director for Middle East at Landis+Gyr, said: "Ericsson’s expertise complements our own, allowing us to expand our smart products and services into the Middle East, thereby empowering utility providers with our ever-evolving, future-proof services portfolio."
 
Rafiah Ibrahim, the president of Ericsson (Middle East and East Africa) said: "Mobility and connectivity is driving the transformation to the networked society in the Middle East, and cities across the region are aware now - more than ever - of the importance of sustainability. In partnership with Landis+Gyr, we are able to deliver smart solutions to the energy sector, allowing utility companies to improve energy consumption and to use connectivity for sustainability."

According to him, smart grid technology changes the way utilities manage infrastructure, resources and data.

"Intelligent devices – such as smart meters and distribution devices – monitor the grid, report information and deliver remote access to control a variety of important functions on a minute-by-minute basis," stated Ibrahim.

The value of this technology infrastructure is soon realized in applications that help the utility promote energy efficiency, provide dynamic pricing options, improve reliability of service and reduce costs, he added.-TradeArabia News Service