Itron just announced a new partnership with Ruggedcom to help both companies increase their smart-grid related business. Under the agreement, Ruggedcom’s RuggedMAX product will be integrated into Itron’s OpenWay smart metering product to provide utilities with an extra WiMAX backhaul communications option.

In a press release, Elik Jaeger, Vice President of RuggedWIRELESS for RuggedCom, commented on the agreement:

“The collaboration with Itron is part of our commitment to work with leading providers of Smart Grid solutions in the areas of AMI and DA. RuggedMAX(TM) is a, utility grade, standards-based solution that has been designed to meet the unique needs of utility customers. Solutions implemented today using RuggedMAX(TM) will allow utilities to add additional features and functionality in the future.”