LIBERTY LAKE, Wash. -- (BUSINESS WIRE) --
Itron, Inc. (NASDAQ: ITRI) announced today that Azerigas Production Union (PU), dealing with transmission, distribution and sale of natural gas in the territory of Azerbaijan Republic will implement Itron's integrated smart payment solution in the capital city, Baku. Itron will deliver smart payment meters and smart cards, along with Itron's Eclipse Enterprise Edition, the prepayment management software. Deliveries will take place during the coming year, starting in March 2010, as a part of a phased nationwide roll-out plan by the Azerbaijan Government.
This new project will include the installation of smart payment meters, together with Itron's Eclipse prepayment management software allowing consumers to purchase meter credit with their smart cards through a network of vending channels including self service terminals.
Through the implementation of this smart payment system supplied by Itron, the world's leader in gas smart payment systems, Azerigas PU aims to provide convenience to the consumers by improving the level of utility services rendered.
"Itron is very proud to be part of such a significant project representing a genuine breakthrough in Central Asia," commented Marcel Regnier, Senior VP and COO, Itron International. "No doubt this initiative will be recognized as an important benchmark, both in the region and internationally."
About Itron:
Itron Inc. is a leading technology provider to the global energy and water industries. Our company is the world's leading provider of intelligent metering, data collection and utility software solutions, with nearly 8,000 utilities worldwide relying on our technology to optimize the delivery and use of energy and water. Our products include electricity, gas, water and heat meters, data collection and communication systems, including automated meter reading (AMR) and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI); meter data management and related software applications; as well as project management, installation, and consulting services. To know more, start here: www.itron.com.
About Azerigas PU:
SOCAR, Azerigas Production Union deals with transmission, distribution and sale of natural gas in the Republic of Azerbaijan. Azerigas PU comprises of 11 divisions and employs approximately 12,600 people. Azerigas PU supplies natural gas to approximately 1.3 million consumers throughout the regions of Azerbaijan. The company owns 163 gas distribution stations and the pipeline network.
CONTACT:
Itron International Communications Director
Isabelle Sevegrand, 33 1 5538 1052 (France)
isabelle.sevegrand@itron.com
or
Itron, Inc.
Ranny Dwiggins, Vice President, Investor Relations
509-891-3443
ranny.dwiggins@itron.com
or
Marni Pilcher, Director, Investor Relations
509-891-3847
marni.pilcher@itron.com