Atmel and Labelec SA (EDP) Sign MOU

Atmel Corporation

and Labelec SA, a subsidiary of Electricidade de Portugal (EDP), today announced the two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop smart grid solutions using the inter-operative powerline communication (PLC) standard powerline intelligent metering evolution (PRIME) standard. This MoU is the industry's first agreement between a distribution system operator (DSO) and technology provider for developing technology solutions using the PRIME standard. "PRIME is a public, open and non-proprietary technology that is ideal for Portugal," said Miguel Ángel Sánchez Fornié, chairman, PRIME Alliance. "The collaboration between Atmel and Labelec SA will enable the successful roll-out of smart metering systems to this region and provide consumers the real-time, two-way capabilities demanded by the growing number of smart grid applications. We are delighted to see activities oriented to massive deployments that reinforce the use of a well proven technology." Atmel and Labelec SA will collaborate on field tests and support to determine the best solutions using PLC PRIME technology for the Portuguese market prior to a mass smart grid roll-out in