The smart grid solution will be rolled out to nearly 700,000 Australian household.

Because the solution is based on open standards, GE was able to work with a consortium of open standards-based technology companies to deliver a holistic smart grid solution to SP AusNet.

GE is providing the meter communications technology across the entire network, while supplying half of the project’s smart meters. GridNet supplied the PolicyNet network management system software suite to manage the meters, controllers, switches and other devices throughout SP AusNet’s smart grid network. Motorola is providing the communications infrastructure.

The Victoria state government has mandated its entire service area be upgraded to smart meters by 2013.

The smart grid solution could enable utilities to monitor the health and status of smart grid devices in real-time, helping ensure consistent reliability for customers. GE adds that its smart grid solution could lay the foundation for a host of advanced smart grid applications – from plug-in vehicles, to advanced grid control, to alternative energy sources, such as solar on rooftops.