May 16, 2008—Augusta Systems Inc., provider of intelligent enterprise network technologies, has announced that its products have been deployed by Allegheny Power for use in a new Smart Grid project that integrates controls for building systems and energy management with utility infrastructure that achieves new levels of peak load control, energy efficiency and reliability.
Allegheny Power has utilized Augusta Systems EdgeFrontier middleware and SensorPort network appliances as the foundation for the Research Ridge Project—an intelligent electricity system communications and control network, linking transformer monitors, power line sensors, circuit switches, electricity sensing devices, IT systems and the IP network.
The new deployment, at a six-building office park in Allegheny’s West Virginia service area, demonstrates how this communications and control network can link the customer’s equipment to the utility’s network to optimize energy consumption.
Specifically, the Augusta Systems technologies enable intelligent management and control of metering devices, HVAC systems, water heaters, office equipment, kitchen appliances and other devices within the office park based upon preferences from the facility owner and system-based energy demand requirements. During high-price scenarios, the system enables control of high-usage equipment, such as water heating and air conditioning.
Beyond the building, the deployment includes power line monitors placed on electricity feeders serving the office park to allow full measurement of efficiency and energy delivery. In addition, the new system ties into a nearby substation integrated with the facility network to allow for monitoring of key distribution system operational parameters including voltages, currents, recloser operations and transformer health indicators.
For more information visit Allegheny Energy Web site.
