Echelon partner first to get approval for Brazilian meters

1

By Jesse Berst

I told you in August that Echelon's smart grid strategy was coming into focus... and it was NOT aimed at the U.S. Here's evidence that its overseas emphasis may be paying off. Brazil's leading meter maker (ELO) has had its products certified for sale in Brazil... and Echelon is providing many of the technologies inside those meters. ELO is the first manufacturer to receive approval, meaning that it is the first one that can start taking orders.

Brazil is the Next Big Hope for major growth in smart meter sales. Rollouts will start as soon as 2012. As a result, all the meter manufacturers are pushing for early mover advantage. Most of them are touting their own products. As it has in China, Echelon chose instead to sell component pieces to a partner.

1

Jesse Berst is the founder and chief analyst of Smart Grid News.com. He consults to smart grid companies seeking market entry advice and M&A advisory. A frequent keynoter at industry events in the US and abroad, he also serves on the Advisory Council of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Energy & Environment directorate.

You might also be interested in ...

Brazil smart grid playbook: kicking it to the goal

Smart grid China gold rush begins: Echelon inks deal