Oracle plans to acquire DataRaker, a developer of data analysis applications for utility companies, under an agreement disclosed Thursday.
Oracle, Redwood Shores, Calif., did not disclose how much it's paying to buy privately held DataRaker. It also did not provide a target date for completing the acquisition.
DataRaker, Sausalito, Calif., develops cloud-based software that electric, gas and water utilities use to collect and analyze reams of data from smart meters, sensors and other devices. By analyzing such data utility companies can find ways to run their operations more efficiently and improve customer service.
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DataRaker's software is currently deployed at a number of major utilities around the U.S. covering more than 17 million smart meters, Oracle said. The applications cover such areas as customer support and revenue management, and asset and network operations.
Oracle plans to add DataRaker's applications to its Oracle Utilities application portfolio, the company said.
"Big data created by smart meters and sensors has presented utilities with an enormous opportunity to improve operations and deliver better customer service by acting on the unique insights that can only be found by understanding the massive amounts of data coming from their customers and networks," said Rodger Smith, senior vice president and general manager, Oracle Utilities, in a statement.
"With DataRaker, Oracle can provide customers a complete and integrated set of products to further unlock efficiencies and create data insights that maximize business value," he said.
DataRaker was founded in 2007 by a number of energy industry professionals. Oracle said the DataRaker management team and employees would join the Oracle Utilities Global Business Unit.
PUBLISHED DEC. 13, 2012
