October 4, 2006 -- Telkonet, Inc., a provider of powerline carrier (PLC) networking platforms using existing electrical wiring, has announced a partnership with Ameren Energy Communications and River City Internet Group (RCIG) to deliver broadband Internet access to multi-dwelling unit facilities (MDUs) in the Ameren utility companies' Missouri and Illinois service territories.
According to a press release, RCIG will provide the Internet signal to the buildings, as well as Internet backhaul service, business management software, account setup, network implementation, monitoring and maintenance, 24/7 technical support and customer care, and hosting and e-mail services. Telkonet will deliver Internet access within the buildings, using its patented broadband over powerline (BPL) platform, which enables Internet and data access over a building's internal electrical wiring.
"In-building BPL enables owners of commercial and MDU facilities to finally make their buildings smart," comments Trey Goede, executive vice president of RCIG. "The platform offers more immediate functionality than alternative solutions, at a fraction of the cost. Building owners and tenants alike share in the benefit of virtually limitless IP applications by having broadband Internet access available from any electrical outlet in the building."
Telkonet says its in-building BPL platform, which can be installed within days, delivers broadband speeds of 6 Mbit/sec, significantly faster than cable or phone lines. Users can access the Internet at any electrical outlet by plugging the company's iBridge unit into a PC and into an electrical outlet.
In addition to enabling high-speed Internet access, the in-building BPL platform provided by RCIG's Electrical Internet division supports applications such as voice over Internet protocol (VoIP), energy management, security and surveillance systems, communications through wired LCD panels in lobbies and elevators, building system controls for centralized heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, digital signage, and wireless hot spots.
"Ameren continues to explore the best economical model for this technology which may bring added value to our customers," remarks Cindy Bambini, an engineer at Ameren Energy's products and services unit.