Project Description 

Saint John Energy is seeking Expressions of Interest from experienced vendors interested in providing an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and/or Meter Data Management (MDM) solution. This initiative represents a significant stride forward in our endeavor to upgrade and modernize our metering capabilities. 

Introduction to Saint John Energy (SJE) 

Saint John Energy (SJE) is a local distribution company (LDC) located in Saint John, NB, Canada, with a forward-looking vision of becoming a national utility leader in the transition to Net Zero. The company has gained widespread recognition for its progressive and innovative approach, earning several prestigious awards both nationally and internationally. 

SJE has been at the forefront of cutting-edge technology, making significant strides in the renewable energy sector. Notably, the company deployed the world's first commercially deployed Tesla Megapack in 2019 and recently deployed 3 Tesla Megapack XLs which are set to come online in early 2024, showcasing its commitment to embracing clean energy solutions. 

SJE currently satisfies 15 percent of our supply requirements with renewable energy thanks to a PPA with Burchill Wind LP, a 42-megawatt wind farm – one of the largest distribution system-connected wind farms deployed, to date, in Canada. The 10-turbine site in Lorneville, owned by Natural Forces and Neqotkuk, began supplying emission-free power for our grid in 2023. SJE continues to investigate and plan for additional clean energy supply sources utilizing either grid or micro-grid implementation. 

SJE employs an advanced distribution management system that leverages AI and machine learning for forecasting and demand reduction. This sophisticated system ensures efficient energy distribution, further solidifying SJE's position as a forward-thinking utility company. 

SJE takes Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) seriously, boasting the capability to reduce voltage on more than 90% of its system reducing peak demand. This demonstrates the company's commitment to energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. 

SJE is proud to offer some of the lowest electricity rates in Atlantic Canada, making it an attractive option for consumers. Our dedication to excellent service has led to a high net promoter score, indicating a strong and positive brand perception among our customers as measured by Electricity Canada in their national survey. 

With over 75% of homes heated by electricity, SJE plays a significant role in the energy needs of the local community. The company offers a heat pump rental program, with over 10% of customers participating, further promoting energy-efficient solutions for heating. Additionally, more than 60% of SJE's customers rent water heaters.  Currently, 1,500 of these rentals can be controlled by the utility, showing the company's commitment to providing comprehensive energy services to the community and our drive to reduce carbon-intensive peak demand requirements.

Our mission: We provide affordable, reliable, and innovative solutions to our customers, helping them make informed choices so they can take control of their energy needs. 

Our vision: To be a national utility leader in the energy transition to Net Zero. 

More information on Saint John Energy and its operations can be found at www.sjenergy.com and www.zero30.ca

Metering Background 

Saint John Energy initiated a pilot deployment of Tantalus AMI meters in 2005, resulting in the 8,252 Tantalus AMI meters in use today. In conjunction with these, we utilize 28,954 non-AMI meters, forming a mixed metering system. Saint John Energy is looking to implement an AMI and MDM solution to address challenges surrounding data collection, operational efficiency, and service optimization. 

Project Objectives 

• Operational Optimization: Enable remote meter reading, disconnect/reconnect services, real-time outage reporting, and integration with outage management systems.
• Cost Reduction and Service Improvement: Lower operational costs while elevating customer service standards, including optimizing benefits through CVR savings.
• Risk Mitigation: Address the potential exposure to time-of-use rates by catching up with AMI implementation compared to regional counterparts.
• Customer Engagement: Increase awareness and transparency of energy consumption for customers.
• Efficiency and Sustainability: Potential to introduce time-of-use rates to manage peak event costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and utilize precise customer data for modeling.

Expected Project Timeline 

RFP Released: January 31^st, 2024 

RFP Responses due: March 27^th, 2024 

AMI/MDM Vendor contracts signed: Q4 2024 

Backend Infrastructure Deployment: Targeted for early 2025

Meter Rollout Initiation: Planned for mid-2025

Only vendors that register for the Expression of Interest and return the NDA that is in the document section will receive the RFP.