PNG(NE) deploys Itron solution to modernise natural gas distribution

Canadian utility Pacific Northern Gas (NE) has deployed Itron’s Automated Meter Reading (AMR) solution, including 500G Encoder Receiver Transmitters (ERTs), to upgrade its natural gas distribution system.

The Itron’s solution will allow PNG(NE) to boost the safety, dependability and efficiency of natural gas delivery to its 22,000 natural gas customers.

The AMR solution will help PNG(NE) streamline its meter reading, as well as boost its operational efficiency, as it gains the ability to remotely read usage data.

With the deployment of AMR solution, PNG(NE) will be able to ensure employee safety through remote meter reading whilst boosting customer satisfaction due to the ability to collect usage data with greater accuracy.

PNG(NE) director of operations and customer care Dominic Feenan said: “PNG(NE)’s goal is to fulfill the energy needs of our customers in the safest, most reliable and most efficient manner. By deploying Itron’s AMR solution, we will be able to continue to meet this goal, while improving customer satisfaction and employee safety.”

Itron senior vice-president of Networked Solutions John Marcolini said: “With decades of experience in bringing safety, efficiency and innovation to natural gas utilities, Itron is a proven provider of natural gas solutions.

“We look forward to collaborating with PNG(NE) to deliver new value and better serve the utility’s energy consumers with our AMR solution.”

Meanwhile, in a separate development, Double E Pipeline received its ‘Notice to Proceed’ with construction, and gained approval for its Implementation Plan, from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

Double E Pipeline is a joint venture in which Summit Midstream Partners (SMLP) owns a 70% equity interest and serves as the pipeline’s operator and construction manager.

Furthermore, Double E has received necessary rights-of-way on federal lands from the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management and signed memorandums of agreement with regard to treatment and mitigation measures at certain cultural resource sites in New Mexico and Texas.