Itron Launches IntelliFLEX to Enhance Energy Grid Capacity
Itron Inc. (ITRI) has recently unveiled IntelliFLEX, an innovative Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS) aimed at enhancing the visibility, control, and optimization of behind-the-meter distributed energy resources (DERs). By leveraging Grid-Edge Intelligence (GEI), IntelliFLEX can unlock up to 20% additional capacity in the distribution grid, helping utilities avoid costly infrastructure upgrades. This new solution will be highlighted at DISTRIBUTECH 2025 scheduled for March 24-27.
Key Features of IntelliFLEX
As part of ITRI’s GEI portfolio, IntelliFLEX provides a comprehensive solution for near real-time DER optimization. It facilitates aggregation, forecasting, and AI-driven load balancing across advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) networks, DER aggregators, and consumer energy assets. The system’s capabilities include managing peak demand, grid services, and flexible interconnections. IntelliFLEX is compatible with both Itron and third-party AMI networks or can operate independently, offering support to utilities at various stages of grid modernization. Coupled with distributed intelligence and AMI data, it effectively increases grid capacity through advanced planning, visibility, and DER management.
Advanced Integration and Regulation Compliance
IntelliFLEX enhances low-voltage distribution network visibility, helping utilities improve outage response and energy efficiency. By supporting seamless bi-directional data exchange with grid operations, planning, and forecasting systems, it partners with leading Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) providers. The system skillfully integrates electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, controllable loads, and solar assets to optimize peak demand. Utilizing proprietary protocols and industry standards such as IEEE 2030.5, OCPP, and OpenADR enables IntelliFLEX to dynamically balance supply and demand, reducing outages. In addition, it assists utilities in navigating evolving regulations like FERC 2222 in the U.S., NEM reform in Australia, and §14a EnWG in Germany.
With AI-powered forecasting capabilities, IntelliFLEX manages millions of DERs, ensuring precise demand predictions. This system is built on Itron’s Intelligent Edge Operating System, which guarantees high-performance computing directly at the grid edge. Advanced predictive modeling enhances load-balancing strategies, helping to ease grid stress while facilitating integration with AMI, ADMS, GIS, and utility operations, ultimately lowering deployment costs.
Itron’s Robust Product Development
Itron’s ongoing product introductions effectively tackle the challenges utilities encounter as the energy industry evolves. This strategy reflects positively on the company’s long-term prospects.
In October 2024, Itron launched the CityEdge portfolio, an open platform that combines IoT technologies to solve present and future urban challenges. This rebranding of existing smart city and lighting solutions addresses five key areas: smart lighting, traffic management, sustainability, public safety, and utility management for energy and water.
Before, in March 2024, Itron presented the Low Voltage Distributed Energy Resource Management Solution (LV DERMS). This solution is designed to stabilize low-voltage networks for community energy resources (CERs), such as rooftop solar or battery storage, thereby addressing the complexities of grid instability resulting from the energy transition.
Additionally, Itron released Active Transformer Load and Voltage Monitoring (ATLM/ATVM) applications within its Grid Edge Intelligence portfolio. These distributed intelligence-enabled apps provide utilities with improved visibility across the low-voltage distribution grid.
ITRI Stock Outlook and Performance
ITRI currently holds a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy). Over the past year, the stock has appreciated by 18.2%, contrasting with a decline of 7.1% in the Zacks Electronics-Testing Equipment industry.
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Additional Investment Opportunities
Other notable stocks in the broader technology sector include InterDigital, Inc. (IDCC), Ubiquiti Inc. (UI), and Arista Networks, Inc. (ANET). Both IDCC and UI have garnered a Zacks Rank of #1 (Strong Buy), while ANET is currently rated #2. You can view the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
IDCC is known for its advanced mobile technology solutions that enhance wireless communications. The company specializes in the design and development of technology for digital cellular and wireless products, projecting a long-term growth rate of 15%.
Ubiquiti has effectively managed a global network of over 100 distributors and master resellers, improving demand visibility and inventory management. Last reported quarter, Ubiquiti achieved an earnings surprise of 33.3%, adapting well to fluctuating market dynamics.
Arista has posted a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 12.87% and has a long-term growth expectation of 14.41%, supplying products to a prestigious roster of Fortune 500 global companies across various sectors.
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Itron, Inc. (ITRI): Free Stock Analysis Report
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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
