Denver, Colo. ─ September 30, 2010 – Enspiria Solutions, a Black & Veatch Company, today announced that it has been selected to provide systems integration support for Westar Energy, Inc.’s SmartStar program. The program will provide innovative services that directly benefit Westar’s electric customers in Lawrence, Kan.
Westar, the largest electrical energy supplier in Kansas, was recently awarded a Smart Grid Investment Grant by the U.S. Department of Energy to develop its Smart Grid project in the city of Lawrence. Called "SmartStar Lawrence," the project will include installation of 48,000 "smart" meters, interactive Web access, technology enhancements and improved electric service in Lawrence.
“The SmartStar Lawrence Program will establish a model Smart Grid that features new technologies, programs, and services essential to Westar Energy’s vision. It will also serve as a model for future Smart Grid implementations in the central region of the country,” said Michelle Delka, Westar Energy Director of Smart Grid. “Enspiria Solutions brings extensive Smart Grid experience and a disciplined approach that will make this project a major success.”
Enspiria Solutions will support Westar in the integration of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) and meter data management with Westar’s operational systems to maximize the value of the Smart Grid system. Enspiria Solutions’ services for Westar include project management, business process re-engineering, operational readiness, system and software architecture, technology configuration and customization, and data migration.
"In launching this innovative technology, Westar Energy is empowering its customers to manage their electricity usage, control their electric costs, and help preserve the environment," said Jim Savino, Enspiria Solutions’ Program Manager.
Enspiria Solutions has helped to define and implement Smart Grid programs that benefit approximately 70 million utility customers for more than 40 utilities across North America. Enspiria Solutions was recently acquired by Black & Veatch, a leading global engineering, consulting and construction company.
About Westar Energy Inc.
Westar Energy, Inc. (NYSE: WR) is the largest electric utility in Kansas, providing electric service to about 684,000 customers in the state. Westar Energy has about 7,100 megawatts of electric generation capacity and operates and coordinates more than 35,000 miles of electric distribution and transmission lines. For more information about Westar Energy, visit us on the Internet at http://www.WestarEnergy.com.
About Enspiria Solutions ─ A Black & Veatch Company
Enspiria® Solutions, a Black & Veatch company, is a leading provider of Smart Grid consulting and program integration. With a unique combination of experience, strategy, and implementation expertise, Enspiria Solutions’ professionals provide in-depth Smart Grid services by defining and delivering complete solutions that benchmark the intelligent utilities and telecommunication companies of tomorrow. Specific areas of expertise include: smart meter and meter data management systems, demand response, transmission and distribution management systems, consumer portal and energy management systems, outage management systems, geographical information systems, work and asset management, regulatory submission assistance and expert witness testimony.
Enspiria Solutions is backed by the strength of parent company Black & Veatch, a leading global engineering, consulting and construction company with $2.7 billion in annual revenue. Together, Enspiria Solutions and Black & Veatch provide complete concept through completion Smart Grid services, offering our clients a single point of contact for planning, developing, and implementing this complex infrastructure. Our services enable utilities to fully realize the benefits of past, current, and future technology investments.
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Enspiria Solutions Media Contact: Cindy Menon, +1 303 520 2513, Email Contact