GE, which has its hands in just about every pot, is expanding its smart grid software portfolio with the acquisition of Opal Software.  Specializing in data migration and SCADA simulation, the acquisition is part of GE’s goals around energy-efficient solutions for data management.  Australia-based Opal Software will become part of GE’s Digital Energy business, adding to the lineup of services for customers in need of new solutions around smart grid technology.

GE’s also taking this as an opportunity for global growth, turning Opal Software’s Australia team into a launchpad for supporting the Asia Pacific reason, providing increased local workforces and related technologies.

“Opal Software’s products and project management services are integral to the delivery of GE Energy projects,” said Matt McKenzie, general manager, Asia region for GE’s Digital Energy business. “By bringing Opal Software’s proven technologies together with GE’s solution platforms, our talented teams will drive the next wave of software solutions. Opal Software will help secure GE as a smart grid technology leader and meet the needs of the fast-growing Asia Pacific region.”

Dealing primarily with products aimed at the utlities industry (electricity, water, gas), Opal Software’s data migration capabilities toggle between platforms, already intgrating GE software into non-GE systems.  The acquisition solifies efforts around the virtualization process, centralizing data management options for existing clients.

The drive for smart grid technology is riding high, with a number of other large firms making acquisitions and product launches of their own.  Cisco has taken in Arch Rock towards this end, while Grid Net is teaming with Sprint for access to its 4G network, adding a few perks for their clients.