Eversource grid modernization efforts earned the utility the 2026 Itron Innovator Award, Itron announced on October 20, 2026. The recognition covers work to extend smart-meter infrastructure beyond billing, including cellular connectivity improvements, a planned distribution-management pilot and an evaluation of electric-vehicle charging applications.
Key Takeaways
- Eversource received the award at Itron Inspire 2026 for expanding the operational uses of its smart-meter network.
- A multi-carrier cellular solution allows network access points to switch carriers as conditions change.
- The distribution-management pilot remains planned, while EV charging applications are under evaluation.
Table of Contents
- Eversource grid modernization moves beyond meter reading
- Planned pilot would bring meter data into grid operations
- EV charging applications remain under evaluation
- Conclusion
Eversource grid modernization moves beyond meter reading
Itron’s 2026 award announcement recognizes Eversource’s use of advanced metering infrastructure, or AMI, as a platform for utility operations rather than solely for collecting meter readings. The award is given to an Itron customer using the company’s solutions and technology partners.
Eversource worked with Itron, AT&T, KORE Wireless and Verizon Wireless on a multi-carrier eSIM solution that includes Itron Intelligent Connectivity and Managed Cellular Backhaul. It allows Itron cellular access points to switch automatically to an available network when conditions change.
That capability is designed to reduce reliance on a single cellular carrier across areas with variable network conditions. It supports the communications layer that carries utility data; it is not, by itself, a reported improvement in electricity-service reliability.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Utility scale | Eversource serves more than 4.4 million customers. |
| Planned meter-data scope | Approximately 25,000 meters in the distribution-management pilot. |
| Planned transformer-data scope | More than 3,700 transformers in the distribution-management pilot. |
Planned pilot would bring meter data into grid operations
Eversource is working with Itron and GE Vernova on a planned pilot to bring voltage and transformer-level information into its Advanced Distribution Management System. The proposed scope would support Volt/VAR Optimization and give operators more visibility into changing distribution-network conditions.
The collaboration aims to improve voltage performance, identify potential problems earlier and make better use of existing grid equipment. Those are intended benefits, not completed results: the announcement does not provide measured operational gains or a pilot completion date.
EV charging applications remain under evaluation
Eversource is also evaluating EV Awareness applications from Itron’s technology partner ecosystem. The applications run directly on next-generation Itron smart meters and identify when and where electric-vehicle charging occurs.
The utility is using that pilot to understand charging behavior and assess how meter-level information could support distribution planning and operations as EV adoption grows.
Penni Conner, Eversource’s executive vice president of customer experience and energy strategy, said the company is building on its existing AMI network while prioritizing affordability and reliable service. The announcement did not disclose project spending, expected customer savings or quantified financial benefits.
Conclusion
The next planned step is the distribution-management pilot with Itron and GE Vernova, alongside the ongoing EV Awareness evaluation. Neither has a completion date or quantified benefit disclosed in the announcement.
Read More News
Disclaimer
This FinanceVelix article provides general information, not personalized financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Market prices, interest rates and economic conditions can change; investments carry a risk of loss. Facts reflect the material available when published and may change. Check important information independently and consult a qualified professional when needed. Mentioning an asset, company, or service is not an endorsement.
