The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, also known as NRECA, has selected RuggedCom Inc. as a key partner. NRECA’s regional Smart Grid Demonstration Project or SGDP will now include participation from RuggedCom. RuggedCom is the top designer and manufacturer of utility grade Ethernet and 4G wireless broadband networks. Mission-critical applications in harsh environments will find these networks beneficial.

The reliability, efficiency and cost benefits of a smarter grid will be demonstrated by the project to cooperative members. More than 250,000 pieces of equipment across 12 states will be deployed by participating cooperatives. These include communication infrastructure and SCADA.

In a release, Marzio Pozzuoli, President and CEO of RuggedCom, said, "RuggedCom is pleased to be involved in the Smart Grid Demonstration Project and we are confident that our products will support NRECA's objective of improving reliability."

RuggedCom is a pioneer in developing technologies and products for the electric power industry. The world’s first IEC (News - Alert) 61850-3 compliant Ethernet switch was delivered by RuggedCom. The switch is suitable for electric utility substation environments. RuggedCom has also delivered the world's first fully managed IP67 rated Ethernet switch.

Ethernet switches, network routers, wireless devices and serial servers are included in the technology solutions from RuggedCom. Other technology solutions provided by RuggedCom include media converters, software and professional services. Challenging environments like those found in electric power substations and "Smart Grids" will find the products from RuggedCom useful.