WALTERS GROUP APPLIES INNOVATIVE M2M TECHNOLOGY TO OPERATE SECURITY SYSTEMS, SOLAR FARM OPERATIONS
Verizon Wireless Solutions Improve Communication, Efficiency at Walters Workplace
STAFFORD TOWNSHIP, N.J. – July 8, 2011 – (RealEstateRama) — Walters Group, an award-winning real estate development firm, has redefined “business as usual” by applying machine-to-machine (M2M) technology to modernize the management of its operations. The firm has been recognized as an M2M success story and was invited by Verizon Wireless to tout the benefits of wireless M2M connectivity services at an employee training seminar.
M2M is a technology, which allows electronic devices to communicate with each other via IP-based networks. Those devices can include video surveillance and security solutions, remote sensors, utility meters, appliances and routers.
“The Walters Group is a real-world example of a company using wireless technology – in this instance a machine-to-machine application enabled by Verizon Wireless’ reliable network – to dramatically improve efficiencies and minimize costs,” said Joe Chuisano, regional director of business sales for Verizon Wireless’ Philadelphia region. “We’ve only just begun to scratch the surface in terms of the capabilities that can be leveraged utilizing our technology and the Walters Group’s innovative focus on creating a wirelessly connected business environment that enables remote monitoring of their security systems and solar power operations. We’re truly excited about the vision they have for advancing their business and the key role we can play as they move forward.”
Walters Group is currently building one of the state’s largest solar projects at Stafford Park by constructing a 6.5-megawatt solar farm. The firm plans to install 27,066 solar panels to be set in 1,041 arrays, or stands, sitting atop approximately 35 acres, part of the company’s 350-acre business park that already includes commercial, residential and office space. When the solar park is completed in 2014, power usage data will be collected and sent to a receiving device. As a result, arrays will be managed and controlled remotely.
“It’s a business tool that allows us to cut operational costs by reducing unnecessary site visits for service, and maintenance,” said Ed Walters, Jr., founder and partner of the Walters Group. “It increases productivity by decreasing downtime.” As evidence of the firm’s commitment to a growing solar market, Walters Group recently formed Atlantic Solar to design, build and manage solar systems on buildings and properties that they own.
Another use for M2M technology lies in security. By applying M2M technology, Walters has the ability to transmit data over a high-speed link from CCTV cameras via a wireless network. “Rather than have 24-hour streaming video that can be cumbersome to watch and track, you can have it triggered so that every time something moves in front of the camera, a report is generated. It’s one machine talking to another machine and producing data that can be analyzed,” added Walters. Consequently, security can be heightened at Walters’ retail and multi-family sites. In a model home, for example, assets are protected, and in a multi-family unit, entrances are secured. An application on a smart phone device could allow a person to wave their phone in front of a door, creating a keyless entry. “M2M technology is already having a tremendous impact on businesses – and we’ve just gotten started.”
Construction is ongoing at Stafford Park. This spring, Walters broke ground on Stafford Preserve, an eco-friendly LEED Certified apartment community, offering 216 luxury units. Walters also expects to break ground on 349 residential homes at Stafford Park.
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