Aeris Communications, Inc.

Grid Monitoring technology allows utilities to continuously monitor key circuit parameters and transmit the data over a wireless network to a central location, reducing the time to detect a problem on the grid, identify the location of problem and quickly restore service. Grid monitoring tries to understand the dynamic behavior of our complex power systems and improve its overall reliability.

It is important to understand that utility operators monitor the Electric Grid by keeping tabs on the grid frequency in each part of the nation's power system (the Eastern, Western, and Texas interconnects, etc.). Power grid operators try to constantly maintain a normal frequency of 60 hertz (Hz). Deviations from 60 Hz indicate an imbalance in the grid between the supply and demand (load).

This imbalance, and the subsequent change in frequency, often indicates major grid events, such as a generator tripping off, major loads switching on or off, or an unscheduled interruption of power flow through transmission lines. Major disturbances in the system cause the frequency to drop or shoot up and move beyond a "stable" zone. If untreated, instability between supply and demand can lead to a blackout.

GridWise is a shared future vision for the power grid initiated by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Utility Industry Alliance. The GridWise Initiative strives to focus the profound advances made in Information Technology into making transformational impact on the planning and operation of the power grid from central generation all the way down to customer appliances and equipment. GridWise envisions a collaborative network of enabled distribution, real-time monitoring and control devices filled with information, leading to a myriad of market-based opportunities. The Initiative is betting that this will lead to the profitable monetization of new technologies like distributed generation, demand response, energy storage, and customer load management.

One of the first products ready for market from the GridWise Alliance is the Grid Friendly Appliance controller. The controller works by sensing grid conditions via system frequency monitors and providing automatic demand response in times of disruption. The entire system resides on a small computer chip that can be installed in household appliances. The controllers autonomously react in fractions of a second when a disturbance is detected, whereas traditional power plants take minutes to respond to such an emergency situation.

Aeris Communications supports the Utility sector with enhanced wireless data application solutions for automated meter reading / infrastructure, demand response and utility grid monitoring. Turnkey and adaptive technologies provide utility customers with a seamless experience for these mission critical wireless data applications. Aeris eliminates the wireless complexity by providing dedicated application launch support and proactively managing the wireless network to ensure the highest quality of service and security for mission critical wireless data applications. Contact Aeris to find out more about the complete line of Utility solutions at 888-Go-Aeris.

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Aeris Communications • 2033 Gateway Place, Suite 300 • San Jose, CA 95110 • www.aeris.com • 1 888-GO AERIS