Garden City, Kansas Reaps Benefits Of Sensus Technologies For Electric And Water Utilities
Single AMI network meets dual utility needs today and into the future
Garden City, Kansas has successfully deployed the Sensus FlexNet advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) system for its electric and water utilities. The AMI program includes smart electric and water metering in addition to distribution automation applications, demonstrating the benefits of using a licensed-spectrum approach to AMI that adheres to open standards and supports multiple-applications with one dedicated network.
City officials began reviewing AMI network options nearly two years ago as they sought a solution that would deliver accurate, real-time information on usage to improve customer service and operational efficiency for both utilities. Garden City ultimately selected Sensus because its FlexNet system was proven to successfully support both water and electric needs with one communications highway, lowering installation costs and ensuring future viability of the technology. Garden City worked with Sensus distributor HD Supply for onsite project management throughout the installation process.
"As a municipal utility provider, Garden City is committed to providing affordable electricity and water to its citizens," said Cliff Sonnenberg, electric manager for Garden City. "Sensus stood out as the company's technology was proven for both types of utilities. Throughout this entire project, HD Supply and Sensus collaborated with our teams to ensure smooth installation and introduction of the system to our residents."
Prior to implementing an AMI system, Garden City outsourced meter reading to a contractor, so they have removed those costs and reduced the number of trucks on the road. In addition, they eliminated the need to estimate usage during winter months when meters are often inaccessible due to snow and ice. Other benefits of the AMI program include notification of theft of service and freeing up staff time once spent on billing corrections.
"Our water customers have given positive feedback that the new meters are identifying leaks they were previously unaware of," said Leland Cable, water and wastewater manager for Garden City. "We are in the process of using information gathered by the FlexNet system to identify and repair leaks throughout our distribution system."
The installation of the FlexNet system and meters is now complete at a cost of approximately $3.3M, which was financed by the city. Officials estimate a full return on investment for the electric program in three years and are gathering data to calculate the return for the water program.
"This project clearly demonstrates how Sensus technology is the preferred solution for all utility infrastructure communications," said Randolph Wheatley, vice president of marketing for Sensus. "Our FlexNet system is able to meet the unique needs of Garden City to accommodate both water and electricity smart metering today, as well as giving them a future-proof system for their applications of tomorrow."
Garden City officials credit the project's success to preparation and teamwork. "A lot of credit goes to the city, from the city manager on down, and to Sensus for their leadership and technical assistance. Everything worked," said Sonnenberg. Future applications for the program will include demand response and home area networking. Garden City anticipates these applications may be introduced in the next three to five years.
About Sensus
Sensus is a leading utility infrastructure company offering smart meters, communication systems, software and services for the electric, gas, and water industries. Sensus technology helps utilities drive operational efficiency and customer engagement with applications that include advanced meter reading, data acquisition, demand response, distribution automation, home area networking and outdoor lighting control. Customers worldwide trust the innovation, quality and reliability of Sensus solutions for the intelligent use and conservation of energy and water. For more information, visit www.sensus.com.
SOURCE: Sensus