CPFL Energia Chooses Itron Smart Meters for First Large C&I Project in Brazil

LIBERTY LAKE, Wash.—August 21, 2012 -—Itron, Inc. (NASDAQ: ITRI) announced today CPFL Energia, the largest private group in the Brazilian energy sector that provides electricity distribution, generation, and retail services, signed a contract for the supply of 20,000 Itron smart meters, a meter data collection system and support services. These are principal components of CPFL's Smart Metering System, a reference program for advanced metering infrastructure in Brazil that will focus on commercial and industrial clients. CPFL's objective is to combine technology, resource management, performance management and leadership to reach operational excellence and quality of service goals.

CPFL is installing the meters and expects to complete the implementation of the project in 2013. After installation, the Itron meters will be integrated with CPFL's meter data management and billing systems. The unified metering platform will serve as the foundation for future smart grid initiatives.

"CPFL will optimize services and reduce operational costs with the investment currently underway," said Mauro Carmello, manager of Automation and Operative Processes of the CPFL group. "Itron is a global company that specializes in smart energy metering solutions and will contribute its experience, cutting-edge technology and local support to our program."

With Itron's smart meters and data collection system, CPFL will be able to manage the meters, identify problems and collect measurement data at periodic intervals - — all remotely. Possible problems and non-technical losses may be rapidly identified and handled. These capabilities are fundamental for the success of the utility's program and essential to reducing operational expenses and protecting revenue over the life of the system.

"CPFL needed a solution that would support their specific needs. The Itron solution, in addition to flexible data collection and communication systems, includes the latest-generation SL 7000 meter. This meter, ready to support evolving technologies, is suited to this dynamic market. It combines the versatility and reliability that is necessary for CPFL's clients," said Gadner Vieira, general manager of Itron's Energy Group in Latin America. "We're looking forward to helping CPFL realize the benefits of its ambitious program."