SmartSynch has been selected by Consumers Energy to provide the advanced metering system that will form the foundation of a grid and meter modernization program for its 1.8 million electric customers in Michigan.

SmartSynch has been the leading provider of standards-based, Internet protocol-enabled smart grid solutions utilizing existing cellular networks since the introduction of its first SmartMeter in 2000.

SmartSynch’s smart grid solutions are fully certified to securely deliver smart grid data on all major cellular networks, enabling quicker, easier, more scalable and strategic smart meter deployments for utilities.

Officials with SmartSynch said that the company’s technology creates a two-way communications system that will provide customers with detailed information about their energy usage, allowing them to better manage their energy use and their bills.

Traditional meters just measure energy use and customers only get that information when they get their bills.

John Russell, the president and chief executive officer of Consumers Energy, said the SmartSynch technology and the grid and meter modernization project are part of the utility’s focus on working with customers to help them manage their energy use.

“We’re excited about installing these meters because of the benefits it will bring to our customers. We’re working hard every day to provide a good energy value to our customers,” said Russel in a statement.

He said that this SmartSynch technology provides the flexibility, security and options that the company needs to continue to provide excellent service to the customers and meet their needs in the future.

“As we develop our program, it will allow us to offer new options to customers and allow them to use our system to integrate new technology – such as smart appliances and plug-in electric vehicles – into their daily lives,” said Russell.

“With this decision by one of the most respected and well managed utility organizations in the country, the advantages of utilizing existing cellular networks are now indisputable,” said Stephen Johnston, chief executive officer of SmartSynch.

“Consumers Energy thoroughly evaluated and tested various technologies, and objectively chose our cellular model. Only cellular networks offer the bandwidth to support the smart grid applications of today and those that will inevitably surface as smart grid technology rapidly evolves,” said Johnston.

Johnston predicts this trend will only continue now that the industry is recognizing it is more efficient and less expensive to utilize existing cellular networks.

“Today marks a very real occurrence that will alter the course of smart grid development for the good of utilities and their customers,” he said.