Itron(US:ITRI) ZACKSยท2025-04-07 14:47Core Insights - Itron, Inc. is collaborating with Norgesnett to implement the first edge computing deployment in the Nordic region, utilizing Itron's Grid Edge Intelligence portfolio to modernize the electricity grid [1][2] Group 1: Partnership and Deployment - The partnership aims to enhance visibility and control across the distribution system, supporting Norgesnett's Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) strategy [2] - The initiative will commence in early 2026 with the deployment of 10,000 distributed intelligence (DI)-enabled smart endpoints [4] - The collaboration will provide Norgesnett access to Itron's broader ecosystem, enabling tailored applications for grid modernization [4] Group 2: Technological Advancements - The DI-enabled endpoints will facilitate two-way communication, allowing for remote updates and real-time energy data management [5] - The project aligns with Nordic Innovation's 2030 vision for sustainability and interconnectedness, enabling real-time data analysis to prevent outages and transformer overloads [6] Group 3: Market Context and Growth Drivers - Norway's energy sector is nearly 100% renewable, with electric vehicles (EVs) constituting 96% of new car registrations as of January 2025, positioning the country as a leader in clean energy adoption [3] - Itron's Grid Edge Intelligence platform is experiencing growth due to factors such as data center demand, reindustrialization, and the electrification of transportation and homes [7] - The total backlog for Itron at the end of the fourth quarter was $4.7 billion, indicating strong market demand for grid resiliency and automation solutions [7] Group 4: Financial Performance - Itron's 2024 bookings reached $2.7 billion, resulting in a book-to-bill ratio of 1:11, with a significant portion of the backlog consisting of grid-edge intelligence platform content [8] - The company anticipates 2025 revenues to be between $2.4 billion and $2.5 billion, reflecting a flat year-over-year growth at the midpoint [8]