In many cases, different rules apply in product, software and service sales. Lately, I’ve noted that the true game changer is selling — and buying — Software as a Service. Simply said, Software as a Service (SaaS) means that you get access to a software application running somewhere in the cloud, instead of having it installed and managed by you at your own premises — an approach gaining popularity across industries and the way of the future.

How can utilities make intelligent use of their smart metering infrastructure? What are the benefits of analytics for typical processes in medium- and low-voltage networks? In times of increasing decentralization of generation across the distribution network, Landis+Gyr’s Advanced Grid Analytics software (AGA) offers multifaceted benefits.

Without doubt, flexibility will be a key component in the future of energy grids. Future grids will need to have the capability to react almost instantaneously to changes in loads to efficiently manage constantly fluctuating consumption and generation. On utility and DSO side, there is an expectation of a full suite of smart grid devices that match particular requirements. These needs will be shaped by a wide range of factors from population density to climate and geography. Some parts of the world produce a lot of wind power or have access to geothermal sources of energy. Colder regions need to monitor heating consumption, while warmer regions need accurate data on consumption of energy used for cooling. Thanks to cutting-edge solutions from Landis+Gyr, every region can have smart grids tailor-made to their needs in a way that maximizes the gains these technologies offer.

G3-PLC communication technology is known for its fast and reliable communication in a smart grid environment. By utilizing the G3-500 frequency band for smart metering communication, the easy-to-build technology provides outstanding reliability. This has been proven in several field tests with Landis+Gyr customers.

For over a decade, Vallebygdens Energi in Sweden has operated smart metering. Now, when transferring to second generation AMI technology, the utility chose Landis+Gyr as its partner with the aim of improving operational efficiency using their advanced offering and Software as a Service solution.

Imagine – at 7.30pm city buildings built in the 10th century light up together. Three minutes later, all the buildings dating from the 11th century light up, and so on until the most modern ones are lit in a city-wide light show, century by century. Since the end of last year, this has become a reality in Czechs capital Prague – powered by Landis+Gyr technology.