Panel Of Experts Discuss Ontario Smart Metering Initiative At Autovation 2006

Northbrook, IL — The advanced metering and utility industries are keeping a keen eye on Ontario during implementation of its plan to install smart meters in all homes and small businesses in the province by 2010. "Ontario is a bellwether for smart metering initiative across North America," says AMRA Committee Member Rob Lauridsen-Hoegh. "Driving Ontario's program is the goal of achieving provincial energy self sufficiency, optimizing conservation, and giving consumers the ability to better manager energy consumption and their electric bills."

A panel of experts at the forefront of this initiative will discuss facets of the project during "Getting Smart About Smart Meters" at Autovation 2006: The AMRA International Symposium, Oct. 22-25 in Nashville, Tenn.

Janice Graham, Coordinator of Regulatory Policy within the Consumer & Regulatory Affairs Division of the Ontario Ministry of Energy, is the latest addition to the discussion featuring fellow panelists:

• Peter D'Uva of Toronto Hydro
• John Forsyth of Rodan Metering, and
• Moderator Carolyn Kinsman of Automated Communication Links

This is just one of over sixty insightful educational sessions relevant to the energy conservation, distribution and regulation issues faced by utility and advanced metering professionals from around the world. Additional Autovation 2006 highlights include:

• Featured Speakers — Dave Barry, author and humorist; Kenneth R. Breeden, Tennessee Valley Authority; Decosta E. Jenkins, Nashville Electric Service; Nora Brownell, formerly of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; and Scott Potter, Metro Water Services for the City of Nashville
• Utility Peer Awards Programs — AMRA is working with the Utility Planning Network to facilitate two renowned annual awards programs that allow utilities from around the world to honor their peers
• Utility-to-Utility Forums – Roundtable discussions to facilitate the free flow of ideas and experiences for utility representatives only
• Innovation Showcase – Dedicated 25-minute presentations by AMR companies for utility delegates to ask the tough questions specific to their needs
• Exhibit Hall – The best source of information about AMR products and services — over 80 leading AMR vendors in one location
• Networking opportunities such as Speed Networking and Breakfast With the Experts

Details, including the full program of educational sessions, are at www.amra-intl.org/autovation.

SOURCE: AMRA