October 6 2009

Laclede Leverages Tantalus Smart Grid Network
to Support Military Base Modernization

Vancouver, BC – October 6, 2009 – Laclede Electric Cooperative has entered into a contract to provide Fort Leonard Wood with energy management services for Commercial & Industrial applications using the utility’s existing Tantalus smart grid communications network.

The project, which is part of the U.S. military’s base modernization program, involves Laclede providing the Fort with daily energy profiles containing detailed kWh consumption, kVARh, and Peak kW readings presented in 15-minute intervals, collected from 160 of the base’s largest facilities. Access to precise performance level indicators enables Engineering and Operations staff at the Fort to see when and how electricity is used and take steps to lower consumption and costs. The data can also be used to detect malfunctioning equipment and quickly remedy load imbalances that can result in equipment damage, invalid measurements, and inefficient use of energy.

Laclede, which installed its Tantalus Utility Network (TUNet ® ) in 2008, distributes energy to 35,000 members located in six south-central Missouri counties. The Cooperative’s 1,400 square mile service territory embraces urban, suburban, commercial & industrial and rural areas. The 220 MHz RF signal used by the TUNet system offers excellent radio range and penetration over the uneven, Ozark Mountain countryside. This gives Laclede deployment flexibility and the ability to accelerate results by targeting specific customers within its service area, including the Fort Leonard Wood base, without additional communications infrastructure. The Tantalus system operates independent of the drive-by AMR system currently used to collect monthly meter reads from singlephase meters located on the base.

The C&I meters used in this deployment are equipped with Tantalus PP-1310 modules which add wireless, two-way communications and advanced monitoring capabilities to solid state polyphase meters, providing Laclede with near real-time access to meter data via TUNet.

“Utilities and their commercial & industrial customers – whether government or private sector – demand more and better information to optimize the use of energy and control costs,” said Eric Murray, Tantalus’ President & CEO. “By adding advanced monitoring and control functionality, Laclede will provide Fort Leonard Wood with the data needed for better resource management as well as more accurate forecasting and load profiling, all of which contribute to more efficient use of energy and conservation-minded base operations.”

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About the Laclede Electric Cooperative
Laclede Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric distribution cooperative providing energy services to over 35,000 locations across 5,137 miles of line throughout a six-county service territory in South-central Missouri. Laclede Electric is focused on meeting our members' needs by providing exceptional customer service and a reliable supply of electricity, all at a reasonable cost. As a Touchstone Energy® cooperative we are dedicated to achieving these goals by following four core values: integrity, accountability, innovation, and commitment to community. The cooperative’s headquarters are located at 1400 East Route 66 in Lebanon, with district offices in Camdenton, Hartville and Waynesville.