Arkansas Cooperative Upgrades Grid with Itron's Gen5 Riva Solution

Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative Corporation is modernizing its electric grid with Itron's Gen5 Riva solution. The project, funded by the US Department of Energy's Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program, will enhance grid resiliency and reliability through Itron's fiber-enabled communications technology and smart meters. The upgrade will provide AVECC's members with reliable, high-speed internet access and detailed consumption data.

The Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative Corporation (AVECC) is set to modernize its electric grid with Itron's Gen5 Riva solution, a project funded by the US Department of Energy's (DOE) Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program [1]. This initiative aims to enhance grid resiliency and reliability, ultimately benefiting AVECC's members with improved internet access and detailed consumption data.

The DOE's Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program was established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to accelerate the deployment of transformative projects that ensure the reliability of the power sector's infrastructure [1]. AVECC's grant, valued at $36.6 million, is a significant investment towards this goal. The project's location spans northwest and south Arkansas [1].

Key components of the modernization include Itron's fiber-enabled communications technology and smart meters [1]. These advancements will enable increased device coordination, faster response times during outages, and proper load management system balancing [1]. Additionally, the project will incorporate a layered security approach, replacing outdated oil-filled equipment with vacuum interrupter equipment, and training the workforce on the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of smart grid technologies [1].

The benefits of this modernization extend beyond the electric grid. With the implementation of smart meters, approximately 80% of AVECC's service area will receive high-speed internet access [1]. This not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also enables them to monitor their energy consumption more efficiently. Furthermore, the project aims to decrease maintenance expenditures, ensuring long-term cost savings for AVECC [1].

The collaboration between AVECC and Itron is a testament to the ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen the electric grid in the face of growing threats of extreme weather and climate change [1]. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, innovative solutions like this will play a crucial role in ensuring a reliable and resilient power system for all.

References:
[1] Mitchell Williams Law. (2022, October 13). Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program - Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative Corporation Awarded US Department of Energy Grant. https://www.mitchellwilliamslaw.com/grid-resilience-and-innovation-partnerships-program-arkansas-valley-electric-cooperative-corporation-awarded-us-department-of-energy-grant