eMeter announced it has joined the VMware Technology Alliance Partner (TAP) program. The VMware TAP program helps technology vendors integrate their products with VMware virtualization software and deliver timely, joint solutions to mutual customers.

Through eMeter’s support of EnergyIP software running on VMware Infrastructure 3, eMeter’s utility customers now have a combined solution to increase performance, cut operating costs, and achieve greener operations. VMware Infrastructure 3 improves business continuity and strengthens the security of eMeter’s EnergyIP software. The capabilities of VMware virtualization software and technology help eMeter customers cut costs through virtualization and hardware consolidation resulting in reduced hardware and operating costs required to run EnergyIP. Cost savings and benefits are realized immediately through a smaller total foot print in the datacenter including lower overall power and cooling requirements and a smaller carbon footprint enabling customers to meet their green initiatives.

“This is a great benefit to our customers. It allows them to virtualize in their environments at a significant hardware cost savings. VMware Infrastructure also provides a built-in redundant infrastructure that will meet many IT shops’ high availability and disaster recovery needs. We are presently working on offering templates and appliances which would reduce the implementation time significantly” said Larsh Johnson, president and CTO of eMeter. “This also fits well with the fact that EnergyIP, as meter data management (MDM) software, is a cornerstone component of the Smart Grid infrastructure and key to the ability of utilities to implement large-scale consumer energy efficiency programs.”

eMeter provides software that enables utilities to realize the full benefits of their Smart Grid and Advanced Metering  initiatives including demand response programs. Demand response programs have been shown to conserve up to 20 percent  of electricity typically used.

“We are excited to welcome eMeter as the newest member of the VMware TAP program,” said Bernie Mills, senior director, alliance programs, VMware. “The VMware TAP program offers companies like eMeter the tools and resources they need to develop high-value solutions that meet the needs of our mutual customers.”

With more than 650 members worldwide, the VMware TAP program works with best-of-breed technology partners to provide them a comprehensive set of VMware technical and marketing services, support, tools and expertise to deliver enhanced value to joint customers.