Atmel and Labelec sign MoU for PRIME-compliant smart-metering system development

Atmel and Labelec SA, a subsidiary of Electricidade de Portugal (EDP), have announced the two companies have signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) to develop smart-grid metering systems using the inter-operative PRIME (powerline intelligent metering evolution) powerline communication standard. "PRIME is a public, open and non-proprietary technology that is ideal for Portugal," said Miguel Ángel Sánchez Fornié, chairman, PRIME Alliance." The collaboration between Atmel and Labelec SA will enable the successful rollout of smart metering systems to this region and provide consumers the real-time, two-way capabilities demanded by the growing number of smart grid applications. We are delighted to see activities oriented to massive deployments that reinforce the use of a well proven technology." Atmel and Labelec SA will collaborate on field tests and support to determine the best designs using PLC PRIME technology for the Portuguese market prior to a mass smart grid roll-out in the short term. Portugal will potentially serve 7 million smart-grid users. Atmel