Smart grid communications: IBM offers utilities an easier way to make the leap

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IBM is offering utilities a comprehensive end-to-end smart grid communications network, and the company says it's the whole enchilada: consultation, design and integration and deployment with network technology from a variety of partners, not to mention monitoring and management. The offering, which IBM says is the first of its kind, is a one-stop shop for utilities that want to make the transition from traditional electric grids to smart grids — a secure, scalable, cost-effective communications network from the data center to the smart meters at customers' homes. IBM's "partner ecosystem" in the global program includes quite an extensive cast: ADVA Optical Networking, Alvarion, Ciena, Cisco, Itron, Juniper Networks, Landis+Gyr, Motorola, RuggedCom, Sensus and Trilliant.

Quick Take: This is a first glance at IBM's program, but it would seem hard to complain about comprehensive communications services coordinated by one company that's lined up utility and regulatory expertise as well as an impressive array of technology partners.

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