Australian electricity distributor Western Power is increasing its smart energy capabilities with a network billing module from local company Hansen Technologies.

The network billing module will enhance Western Power’s ability to handle the advanced metering infrastructure, as it charts a new journey in the age of digitalisation and data creation.

In a rapidly changing landscape, Western Power is striving to meet the evolving energy needs of its customers, providing a wide range of traditional and renewable energy sources to power modern lifestyles. With an exponential data increase expected over the next few years, the network billing module should enable Western Power to meet the needs of energy retailers more effectively while providing the necessary capabilities for end users to experience the rewards of innovative energy systems.

“We have enjoyed an immensely rewarding relationship with Hansen Technologies spanning more than ten years,” said Andrew Smith, head of information and communication technology at Western Power. “Operating in an increasingly data-first environment, we were in need of a solution that could handle a higher degree of advanced metering and complex billing demands. With enhanced operational efficiency, reduced billing time and increased market dynamics, the latest upgrades to Western Power’s capabilities marks another milestone in this partnership.”

Hansen MDM is a smart metering offering that ensures energy companies leverage real-time energy usage data to improve the management of grid networks and provide accurate billing and resulting energy efficiency to customers. It brings benefits to the entire utility value chain, from smart device rollout management to energy logistics, energy business, billing and value-added customer related services. Provided as a premise or cloud-based offering, it lets companies run their operations aligned to their preferred business model.

“As a valued customer for over a decade now, we are thoroughly invested in the continued success of Western Power as it takes the next steps in its digital journey,” said David Castree, president for Asia-Pacific at Hansen Technologies. “Upgrading their advanced energy capabilities while delivering improved operational outcomes has been a great success. As the energy market continues to evolve, we look forward to strengthening our partnership even further in the years to come.”

Hansen Technologies provides software and services to the energy, water and communications industries. It has more than 550 customers in over 80 countries.

Western Power is a Western Australian state government-owned corporation.