NorthStar signs agreement with Hearst to implement MeterSense

NorthStar Utilities Solutions signed an agreement with Hearst Power Distribution to implement MeterSense as their Operational Data Store. MeterSense is a comprehensive meter data management solution (MDMS) designed to provide utilities with long-term storage of billing and operational data, validation, and through its configurable Rules Engine, intelligent real-time event management. End Quote

MeterSense creates real, quantifiable business process improvements in the growing world of smart meters.

(1888PressRelease) December 11, 2009 - OTTAWA - Hearst Power Distribution (Hearst) has signed an agreement with NorthStar Utilities Solutions, a division of Harris Computer Systems, to implement MeterSense as their Operational Data Store. In conjunction with the Ontario government's provincial Meter Data Management Repository, MDM/R, MeterSense will provide Hearst with a comprehensive solution to immediately validate the health and status of their metering infrastructure. It will also improve operational efficiencies by allowing Hearst to understand how their assets are performing. Through advanced reporting MeterSense provides invaluable information on distribution system loading and assists utilities in optimizing their assets in the field.

The Province of Ontario has embarked on a plan that will see the implementation of resident smart meters on every household by 2011 and the move to time of use billing. This program is part of the government's overall strategy to create and promote a conservation culture and encompasses over four million residential smart meters. The incorporation of both smart grid technology and smart meters will facilitate the use advanced information-based technologies to increase grid efficiency, reliability and flexibility.

Hearst contracted with Util-Assist, a leading industry consultant, to issue a request for proposal and review vendors. After a thorough review Hearst chose NorthStar's MeterSense solution based on its ability to meet both their immediate and long term smart meter objectives.

"We are thrilled with the addition of Hearst to the MeterSense user community." said Rob DiMurro, General Manager of NorthStar Utilities Solutions, "Our MeterSense initiative has huge momentum as more utilities realize that they can gain operational efficiencies from a comprehensive meter data management solution like MeterSense."

About Hearst Power Distribution Company Ltd.:
Hearst Power Distribution Company Ltd. distributes electricity to the residents and businesses of the Town of Hearst.

Ms. Nicole Leduc
General Manager
Hearst Power Distribution Company Ltd.
Hearst, Ontario
(705) 372-2815
nleduc ( @ ) ntl dot sympatico dot ca

About MeterSense:
MeterSense is a comprehensive meter data management solution (MDMS) designed to provide utilities with long-term storage of billing and operational data, validation, and through its configurable Rules Engine, intelligent real-time event management. MeterSense is designed to reduce or eliminate the need for manual intervention in handling the significantly increased volume of data utilities are now faced with and act as the central point for integrating meter data and events with other business systems such as CIS, SCADA, GIS, OMS, WMS, and other critical utility systems.

About NorthStar Utilities Solutions:
NorthStar has been serving the utility market for more than 30 years. NorthStar provides utilities with integrated solutions for customer information and billing, financial management and meter data management. Our 200 customer in North American and the Caribbean, benefit from our solutions that let utilities manage their revenues, deliver superior customer service and improve efficiencies while reducing total cost of ownership.

For more information on NorthStar Utilities Solutions and the NorthStar product suite please visit our website at www.northstarutilities.com.

To learn more about MeterSense please contact:
Mike Foley, Senior Account Executive
NorthStar Utilities Solutions
A division of Harris Computer Systems
(613) 868-5594
mfoley ( @ ) northstarutilities dot com

About Harris Computer Systems:
Since 1976, Harris has focused on providing feature-rich and robust turnkey solutions to public power and water markets as well as all levels of local government throughout North America. Harris' focus is on creating long-term relationships with our customers and ensuring that we meet the changing needs of our customers over time.

For further information on Harris Computer Systems, please visit our website at www.harriscomputer.com or call 888-847-7747.

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