Calix launches grid monitoring solution for electric cooperatives
Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) announced a grid monitoring solution built on its Calix One platform, targeting electric cooperatives and utility providers. The solution combines the newly launched GigaPro GPR1011XH optical network terminal (ONT) with AXOS-powered E-Series access appliances and network operations tools on a passive optical network architecture, according to a company press release.
The GigaPro GPR1011XH is a DC-powered, hardened ONT designed to fit into existing field cabinets for indoor and outdoor deployments. It connects via XGS-PON to deliver 10GE LAN connectivity and includes Advanced Encryption Standard data encryption. Calix said the device is intended to help utility providers replace legacy communications architectures with a fiber-based solution.
The announcement extends Calix's existing relationships with more than 100 electric cooperatives, municipalities, and utility providers. The company developed the solution in collaboration with utility industry partners Conexon and Irby Utilities.
Carl Meyerhoefer, senior vice president of business development at Conexon, said the new ONT appliance will "help our member cooperatives accelerate deployment and expand the value of smart grid and electric membership cooperative services across their networks."
Patrick Reams, vice president of technology and communications at Irby Utilities, said electric cooperatives and utility providers are seeking "secure, resilient networks that can support future innovations—including real-time HD video surveillance."
Shane Eleniak, chief product officer at Calix, said the company is "excited to extend the Calix One platform to connect grid monitoring appliances to utility network operations centers."
Electric cooperatives own and maintain nearly 42% of U.S. electric distribution lines, according to the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. The Calix One platform currently serves more than 1,200 customers and has been developed over 15 years at a stated investment of more than $2 billion.
