ITRI 10-K Fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2010

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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010

OR

For the transition period from              to

Commission file number 000-22418

ITRON, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

2111 N Molter Road, Liberty Lake, Washington 99019

(509) 924-9900

(Address and telephone number of registrant’s principal executive offices)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes x No ¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes ¨ No x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes x No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes x No ¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes ¨ No x

As of June 30, 2010 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter), the aggregate market value of the shares of common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant (based on the closing price for the common stock on the NASDAQ Global Select Market) was $2,495,975,576.

As of January 31, 2011, there were outstanding 40,509,260 shares of the registrant’s common stock, no par value, which is the only class of common stock of the registrant.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The information called for by Part III is incorporated by reference to the definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the Company to be held on May 3, 2011.

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Itron, Inc.

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In this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” “Itron” and the “Company” refer to Itron, Inc.

Certain Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains forward-looking statements concerning our operations, financial performance, revenues, earnings growth, liquidity, and other items. This document reflects our current plans and expectations and is based on information currently available as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. When we use the words “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “plan,” “project,” “estimate,” “future,” “objective,” “may,” “will,” “will continue,” and similar expressions, they are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions and estimates. These assumptions and estimates could be inaccurate and cause our actual results to vary materially from expected results. Risks and uncertainties include 1) the rate and timing of customer demand for our products, 2) rescheduling or cancellations of current customer orders and commitments, 3) competition, 4) changes in estimated liabilities for product warranties and/or litigation, 5) our dependence on customers’ acceptance of new products and their performance, 6) changes in domestic and international laws and regulations, 7) future business combinations, 8) changes in estimates for stock-based compensation and pension costs, 9) changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, 10) international business risks, 11) our own and our customers’ or suppliers’ access to and cost of capital, and 12) other factors. You should not solely rely on these forward-looking statements as they are only valid as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We do not have any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement in this document. For a more complete description of these and other risks, refer to Item 1A: “Risk Factors” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Available Information

Documents we provide to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are available free of charge under the Investors section of our website at www.itron.com as soon as practicable after they are filed with or furnished to the SEC. In addition, these documents are available at the SEC’s website (http:// www.sec.gov ) and at the SEC’s Headquarters at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549, or by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.

General

Itron is a technology company dedicated to delivering end-to-end smart metering solutions to electric, natural gas, and water utilities around the world. Our smart metering solutions, meter data management software, and knowledge application solutions bring additional value to a utility’s metering and grid systems. Our professional services help our customers project-manage, install, implement, operate, and maintain their systems.

We were incorporated in 1977. In 2004, we entered the electricity meter manufacturing business with the acquisition of Schlumberger Electricity Metering. In 2007, we expanded our presence in global meter manufacturing and systems with the acquisition of Actaris Metering Systems SA (Actaris).

The following is a discussion of our major products, our markets, and our operating segments. Refer to Item 7: “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for specific segment results.

Our Business

Our offerings include electricity, natural gas, and water metering systems, software, and services. We classify metering systems into three categories: standard metering, advanced metering systems and technology, and smart metering systems and technology. These categories are described in more detail below:

Standard Metering

A standard meter measures electricity, natural gas, or water by mechanical, electromechanical, or electronic means, with no built-in remote-reading communication capability. Standard meters require manual reading, which is typically performed by a utility representative or meter reading service provider. Worldwide, we produce standard residential, commercial and industrial (C&I), and transmission and distribution (T&D) electricity, natural gas, and water meters.

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Advanced Metering Systems and Technology

Advanced metering uses a communication module embedded in the meter to collect and store detailed meter data, which is transmitted to handheld computers, mobile units, and/or fixed networks, allowing utilities to collect the data for billing systems and analyze the meter data for more efficient resource management and streamlined operations. Worldwide, we produce electricity, natural gas, and water advanced metering systems and technology. Depending on the country, communication technologies include telephone, RF (radio frequency), GSM (Global System for Mobile communications), PLC (power line carrier), and Ethernet devices.

Smart Metering Systems and Technology

Smart meters initiate and respond to two-way communications with the utility to automatically collect and transmit meter data frequently to support various applications beyond monthly billings. Our smart metering solutions also have substantially more features and functions than our advanced metering systems and technology. Smart meters are able to send and receive detailed data, collect and store interval data, and interface with other devices, such as in-home displays, smart thermostats and appliances, home area networks, advanced control systems, and more.

Bookings and Backlog of Orders

Bookings for a reported period represent customer contracts and purchase orders received during the period that have met certain regulatory and/or contractual conditions. Total backlog represents committed but undelivered contracts and purchase orders at period-end. Twelve-month backlog represents the portion of total backlog that we estimate will be recognized as revenue over the next 12 months. Backlog is not a complete measure of our future business as we have significant book-and-ship orders. Bookings and backlog may fluctuate significantly due to the timing of large project awards. In addition, annual or multi-year contracts are subject to rescheduling and cancellation by customers due to the long-term nature of the contracts. Beginning total backlog, plus bookings, minus revenues, will not equal ending total backlog due to miscellaneous contract adjustments, foreign currency fluctuations, and other factors. Information on bookings and backlog is summarized as follows:

Our Operating Segments

We operate under the Itron brand worldwide. Our operating segments as of December 31, 2010 are Itron North America and Itron International. Itron North America generates the majority of its revenues in the United States and Canada. Itron International generates the majority of its revenues in Europe, and the balance primarily in South America and Asia/Pacific.

Sales and Distribution

We use a combination of direct and indirect sales channels in both Itron North America and Itron International. A direct sales force is utilized for the largest electric, natural gas, and water utilities, with which we have long-established relationships. For smaller utilities, we typically use an indirect sales force that consists of distributors, representative agencies, partners, and meter manufacturer representatives.

One customer, Southern California Edison, of our Itron North America operating segment, represented 11% of total Company revenues for the year ended December 31, 2010. No single customer represented more than 10% of total revenues for each of the two years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008. Our 10 largest customers in each of the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008 accounted for approximately 34%, 17%, and 15%, of total revenues, respectively.

Raw Materials

Our products require a wide variety of components and materials. Although we have multiple sources of supply for most of our material requirements, certain components and raw materials are supplied by sole-source vendors, and our ability to perform certain contracts depends on the availability of these materials. Refer to Item 1A: “Risk Factors”, included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for further discussion related to risks.

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Product Development

Our product development is focused on both improving existing technology and developing next-generation technology for electricity, natural gas, water, and heat meters, data collection software, communications technologies, data warehousing, and knowledge application solutions. We spent approximately $140 million, $122 million, and $121 million on product development in 2010, 2009, and 2008, which represented 6%, 7%, and 6% of total revenues in those respective years.

Workforce

As of December 31, 2010, we had approximately 9,500 people in our workforce, including permanent and temporary employees and contractors. We have not experienced any work stoppages and consider our employee relations to be good.

Competition

We provide a broad portfolio of products, systems, and services to customers in the utility industry and have a large number of competitors who offer similar products, systems, and services. We believe that our competitive advantage is based on our ability to provide complete end-to-end integrated solutions, our established customer relationships, and our track record of delivering reliable, accurate, and long-lived products and services. Refer to Item 1A: “Risk Factors” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the competitive pressures we face.

Our primary competitors include the following:

Strategic Alliances

We pursue strategic alliances with other companies in areas where collaboration can produce product advancement and acceleration of entry into new markets. The objectives and goals of a strategic alliance can include one or more of the following: technology exchange, product development, joint sales and marketing, or access to new geographic markets. Refer to Item 1A: “Risk Factors” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of risks associated with strategic alliances.

Intellectual Property

Our patents and patent applications cover a range of technologies, which relate to standard metering, advanced metering systems and technology, smart metering systems and technology, meter data management software, and knowledge application solutions. We also rely on a combination of copyrights and trade secrets to protect our products and technologies. We have registered trademarks for most of our major product lines in the United States and many international countries.

Disputes over the ownership, registration, and enforcement of intellectual property rights arise in the ordinary course of our business. While we believe patents and trademarks are important to our operations and in the aggregate constitute valuable assets, no single patent or trademark, or group of patents or trademarks, is critical to the success of our business. We license some of our technology to other companies, some of which are our competitors.

Environmental Regulations

In the ordinary course of our business we use metals, solvents, and similar materials that are stored on-site. We believe we are in compliance with environmental laws, rules, and regulations applicable to the operation of our business.

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MANAGEMENT

Set forth below are the names, ages, and titles of our executive officers as of February 16, 2011.

Malcolm Unsworth is President and Chief Executive Officer, and a member of our Board of Directors. Mr. Unsworth joined Itron in July 2004 as Sr. Vice President, Hardware Solutions, upon our acquisition of Schlumberger’s electricity metering business. In 2007, following our acquisition of Actaris (now known as Itron International), he was promoted to Sr. Vice President and Chief Operating Officer – Itron International. Mr. Unsworth was appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of Itron in April 2008, and promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer effective March 2009. Mr. Unsworth was elected to the Board of Directors in December 2008.

Steve Helmbrecht is Sr. Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Helmbrecht joined Itron in 2002 as Vice President and General Manager, International, and was named Sr. Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in 2005. Previously, Mr. Helmbrecht was Chief Financial Officer of LineSoft Corporation, acquired by Itron in 2002.

John Holleran is Sr. Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary. Mr. Holleran joined Itron in January 2007. In 2006, Mr. Holleran was associated with Holleran Law Offices PLLC, and in 2005 was Executive Vice President, Administration, and Chief Legal Officer for Boise Cascade, LLC, the paper and forest products company resulting from the reorganization of Boise Cascade Corporation, in 2004. While with Boise Cascade Corporation, Mr. Holleran most recently served as Sr. Vice President, Human Resources, and General Counsel.

Philip Mezey is Sr. Vice President and Chief Operating Officer - Itron North America. Mr. Mezey joined Itron in March 2003 as Managing Director of Software Development for Itron’s Energy Management Solutions Group with Itron’s acquisition of Silicon Energy Corp. Mr. Mezey was promoted to Group Vice President and Manager of Software Solutions in 2004. In 2005, Mr. Mezey became Sr. Vice President Software Solutions and was promoted to his current position in 2007.

Marcel Regnier is Sr. Vice President and Chief Operating Officer - Itron International. Mr. Regnier joined Itron in April 2007 as part of our acquisition of Actaris. Mr. Regnier served as Actaris’ Managing Director of its water and heat business unit from 2001, when Actaris was created as a result of the reorganization of Schlumberger’s operations, until April 2008, when he was promoted to his current position.

Jared Serff is Vice President, Competitive Resources. Mr. Serff joined Itron in July 2004 upon our acquisition of Schlumberger’s electricity metering business. Mr. Serff spent six years with Schlumberger, the last four of which were as Director of Human Resources with Schlumberger’s electricity metering business where he was in charge of personnel for all locations in Canada, Mexico, France, Taiwan, and the United States.

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We are dependent on the utility industry, which has experienced volatility in capital spending.

We derive the majority of our revenues from sales of products and services to utilities. Purchases of our products may be deferred as a result of many factors including economic downturns, slowdowns in new residential and commercial construction, customers’ access to capital at acceptable terms, utility specific financial circumstances, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory decisions, weather conditions, and rising interest rates. We have experienced, and may in the future experience, variability in operating results on an annual and a quarterly basis as a result of these factors.

Utility industry sales cycles can be lengthy and unpredictable.

The utility industry is subject to substantial government regulation. Regulations have often influenced the frequency of meter replacements. Sales cycles for standalone meter products have typically been based on annual or bi-annual bid-based agreements. Utilities place purchase orders against these agreements as their inventories decline, which can create fluctuations in our sales volumes.

Sales cycles for advanced and smart metering systems are generally long and unpredictable due to several factors, including budgeting, purchasing, and regulatory approval processes that can take several years to complete. Our utility customers typically issue requests for quotes and proposals, establish evaluation committees, review different technical options with vendors, analyze performance and cost/benefit justifications, and perform a regulatory review, in addition to applying the normal budget approval process within a utility. Today, governments around the world are implementing new laws and regulations to promote increased energy efficiency, slow or reverse growth in the consumption of scarce resources, reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and protect the environment. Many of the legislative and regulatory initiatives encourage utilities to develop a smart grid infrastructure, and some of these initiatives provide for government subsidies, grants, or other incentives to utilities and other participants in their industry to promote transition to smart grid technologies.

Section 1252 of the U.S. Energy Policy Act of 2005 requires electric utilities to consider offering their customers time-based rates. The Act also directs these utilities and state utility commissions to study and evaluate methods for implementing demand response, to shift consumption away from peak hours, and to improve power generation.

The European Union has issued the EU Energy Package, which includes directives and regulations intended to strengthen consumer rights and protection in the EU energy market. The EU’s 20-20-20 goals include a 20% increase in energy efficiency, a 20% reduction of carbon dioxide emissions compared with 1990 levels, and producing 20% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020. The package requires EU Member States to ensure the implementation of smart metering systems and outlines deployment by 2022, with 80% of electric consumers equipped with smart metering systems by 2020.

While we believe these initiatives will provide opportunities for sales of our products, the pace at which these markets will grow is unknown due to the timing of legislation, regulatory approvals related to the deployment of new technology, capital budgets of the utilities, and purchasing decisions by our customers. If government regulations regarding the smart grid and smart metering are delayed, revised to permit lower or different investment levels in metering infrastructure, or terminated altogether, this could have a material adverse effect on our results of operation, cash flow, and financial condition.

We are subject to international business uncertainties, obstacles to the repatriation of earnings, and foreign currency fluctuations.

A substantial portion of our revenues is derived from operations conducted outside the United States. International sales and operations may be subjected to risks such as the imposition of government controls, government expropriation of facilities, lack of a well-established system of laws and enforcement of those laws, access to a legal system free of undue influence or corruption, political instability, terrorist activities, restrictions on the import or export of critical technology, currency exchange rate fluctuations, adverse tax burdens, availability of qualified third-party financing, generally longer receivable collection periods than those commonly practiced in the United States, trade restrictions, changes in tariffs, labor disruptions, difficulties in staffing and managing international operations, difficulties in imposing and enforcing operational and financial controls at international locations potential insolvency of international distributors, burdens of complying with different permitting standards and a wide variety of foreign laws, and obstacles to the repatriation of earnings and cash. Fluctuations in the value of international currencies may impact our operating results due to the translation to the U.S. dollar as well as our ability to compete in international markets. International expansion and market acceptance depend on our ability to modify our technology to take into account such factors as the applicable regulatory and business environment, labor costs, and other economic conditions. In addition, the laws of certain countries do not protect our products or technologies in the same manner as the laws of the United States. There can be no assurance that these factors will not

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have a material adverse effect on our future international sales and, consequently, on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

We depend on our ability to develop new competitive products.

Our future success will depend, in part, on our ability to continue to design and manufacture new competitive products and to enhance and sustain our existing products, keep pace with technological advances and changing customer requirements, gain international market acceptance, and manage other factors in the markets in which we sell our products. Product development will require continued investment in order to maintain our market position. We may not have the necessary capital, or access to capital at acceptable terms, to make these investments. We have made, and expect to continue to make, substantial investments in technology development. However, we may experience unforeseen problems in the development or performance of our technologies or products. In addition, we may not meet our product development schedules. New products often require certifications or regulatory approvals before the products can be used and we cannot be certain that our new products will be approved in a timely manner. Finally, we may not achieve market acceptance of our new products and services.

We may face product-failure exposure.

We provide product warranties for varying lengths of time and establish allowances in anticipation of warranty expenses. In addition, we record contingent liabilities for additional product-failure related costs. These warranty and related product-failure allowances may be inadequate due to undetected product defects, unanticipated component failures, as well as changes in various estimates for material, labor, and other costs we may incur to replace projected product failures. As a result, we may incur additional warranty and related expenses in the future with respect to new or established products. Systems that we sell could fail to perform as intended, resulting in potentially substantial claims against us that could materially and adversely affect our financial position. We sell vending and pre-payment systems with security features that if compromised, may lead to claims against us, which could materially and adversely affect our financial position.

Business interruptions could adversely affect our business.

Our worldwide operations could be subject to hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes, floods, fires, extreme weather conditions, medical epidemics or pandemics, or other natural or manmade disasters or business interruptions. The occurrence of any of these business disruptions could seriously harm our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Our key manufacturing facilities are concentrated and in the event of a significant interruption in production at any of our manufacturing facilities, considerable expense, time, and effort could be required to establish alternative production lines to meet contractual obligations, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

We are facing increasing competition.

We face competitive pressures from a variety of companies in each of the markets we serve. Some of our present and potential future competitors have, or may have, substantially greater financial, marketing, technical, or manufacturing resources and, in some cases, have greater name recognition and experience. Some competitors may enter markets we serve and sell products at lower prices in order to grow market share. Our competitors may be able to respond more quickly to new or emerging technologies and changes in customer requirements. They may also be able to devote greater resources to the development, promotion, and sale of their products and services than we can. Some competitors have made, and others may make, strategic acquisitions or establish cooperative relationships among themselves or with third parties that enhance their ability to address the needs of our prospective customers. It is possible that new competitors or alliances among current and new competitors may emerge and rapidly gain significant market share. Other companies may also drive technological innovation and develop products that are equal in quality and performance or superior to our products, which could put pressure on our market position, reduce our overall sales, and require us to invest additional funds in new technology development. In addition, there is a risk that low-cost providers will enter, or form alliances or cooperative relationships with our competitors, thereby contributing to future price erosion. Some of our products and services may become commoditized and we may have to adjust the prices of some of our products to stay competitive. Should we fail to compete successfully with current or future competitors, we could experience material adverse effects on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

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We are affected by the availability and regulation of radio spectrum and interference with the radio spectrum that we use.

A significant number of our products use radio spectrum, which are subject to regulation by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. The FCC may adopt changes to the rules for our licensed and unlicensed frequency bands that are incompatible with our business. In the past, the FCC has adopted changes to the requirements for equipment using radio spectrum, and it is possible that the FCC or the U.S. Congress will adopt additional changes.

Although radio licenses are generally required for radio stations, Part 15 of the FCC’s rules permits certain low-power radio devices (Part 15 devices) to operate on an unlicensed basis. Part 15 devices are designed for use on frequencies used by others. These other users may include licensed users, which have priority over Part 15 users. Part 15 devices cannot cause harmful interference to licensed users and must be designed to accept interference from licensed radio devices. In the United States, our advanced and smart metering systems are typically Part 15 devices that transmit information to (and receive information from, if applicable) handheld, mobile, or fixed network systems pursuant to these rules.

The FCC has initiated a rulemaking proceeding in which it is considering adopting “spectrum etiquette” requirements for unlicensed Part 15 devices operating in the 902-928 MHz band, which many of our advanced and smart metering systems utilize. The outcome of the proceeding may require us to make material changes to our equipment.

The FCC has also adopted service rules governing the use of the 1427-1432 MHz band. We use this band with various devices in our network solutions. Among other things, the rules reserve parts of the band for general telemetry, including utility telemetry, and provide that nonexclusive licenses will be issued in accordance with Part 90 rules and the recommendations of frequency coordinators. Telemetry licensees must comply with power limits and out-of-band emission requirements that are designed to avoid interference with other users of the band. The FCC issues licenses on a nonexclusive basis and it is possible that the demand for spectrum will exceed supply,

Our radio-based products primarily employ unlicensed radio frequencies. We depend upon sufficient radio spectrum to be allocated by the FCC for our intended uses. As to the licensed frequencies, there is some risk that there may be insufficient available frequencies in some markets to sustain our planned operations. The unlicensed frequencies are available for a wide variety of uses and may not be entitled to protection from interference by other users who operate in accordance with FCC rules. The unlicensed frequencies are also often the subject of proposals to the FCC requesting a change in the rules under which such frequencies may be used. If the unlicensed frequencies become crowded to unacceptable levels, restrictive, or subject to changed rules governing their use, our business could be materially adversely affected.

We have committed, and will continue to commit, significant resources to the development of products that use particular radio frequencies. Action by the FCC could require modifications to our products. The inability to modify our products to meet such requirements, the possible delays in completing such modifications, and the cost of such modifications all could have a material adverse effect on our future business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Outside of the United States, certain of our products require the use of RF and are subject to regulations in those jurisdictions where we have deployed such equipment. In some jurisdictions, radio station licensees are generally required to operate a radio transmitter and such licenses may be granted for a fixed term and must be periodically renewed. In other jurisdictions, the rules permit certain low power devices to operate on an unlicensed basis. Our advanced and smart metering systems typically transmit to (and receive information from, if applicable) handheld, mobile, or fixed network reading devices in unlicensed bands pursuant to rules regulating such use. Generally, we use the unlicensed Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) bands with the various reading devices in our solutions. In Europe, we generally use the 433 MHz and 868 MHz bands. In the rest of the world, we primarily use the 433 MHz and 2.4000-2.4835 GHz bands, as well as other local unlicensed bands. To the extent we introduce new products designed for use in the United States or another country into a new market, such products may require significant modification or redesign in order to meet frequency requirements and other regulatory specifications. In some countries, limitations on frequency availability or the cost of making necessary modifications may preclude us from selling our products in those countries. In addition, new consumer products may create interference with the performance of our products, which could lead to claims against us.

We may face liability associated with alleged adverse health effects from the use of our product.

We may be subject to claims that there are adverse health effects from the radio frequencies utilized in connection with our products. If these claims succeed, our customers could suspend implementation or purchase substitute products, which could cause a loss of sales.

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We may be unable to adequately protect our intellectual property.

While we believe that our patents and other intellectual property have significant value, it is uncertain that this intellectual property or any intellectual property acquired or developed by us in the future will provide meaningful competitive advantages. There can be no assurance that our patents or pending applications will not be challenged, invalidated, or circumvented by competitors or that rights granted thereunder will provide meaningful proprietary protection. Moreover, competitors may infringe our patents or successfully avoid them through design innovation. To combat infringement or unauthorized use, we may need to commence litigation, which can be expensive and time-consuming. In addition, in an infringement proceeding a court may decide that a patent or other intellectual property right of ours is not valid or is unenforceable, or may refuse to stop the other party from using the technology or other intellectual property right at issue on the grounds that it is non-infringing or the legal requirements for an injunction have not been met. Policing unauthorized use of our intellectual property is difficult and expensive, and we cannot provide assurance that we will be able to, or have the resources to, prevent misappropriation of our proprietary rights, particularly in countries that do not protect such rights in the same manner as they do in the United States.

A significant portion of our revenue is generated with a limited number of customers.

Historically, our revenues have been concentrated with a limited number of customers, which change over time. The 10 largest customers accounted for 34%, 17%, and 15% of revenues for 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively. One customer represented 11% of total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2010. No single customer represented more than 10% of total Company revenues for each of the two years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008. We are often a party to large, multi-year contracts that are subject to cancellation or rescheduling by our customers due to many factors, such as extreme, unexpected weather conditions that cause our customers to redeploy resources, convenience, regulatory issues, or possible acts of terrorism. Cancellation or postponement of one or more of these significant contracts could have a material adverse effect on our financial and operating results. In addition, if a large customer contract is not replaced upon its expiration with new business of similar magnitude, our financial and operating results would be adversely affected.

As we enter into agreements related to the deployment of smart metering systems and technology, the value of these contracts is substantially larger than contracts we have had with our customers in the past. These deployments last several years and may exceed the length of prior deployment agreements. The terms and conditions of these smart metering system agreements related to testing, contractual liabilities, warranties, performance, and indemnities can be substantially different than the terms and conditions associated with our previous contracts.

We may face liability associated with the use of products for which patent ownership or other intellectual property rights are claimed.

We may be subject to claims or inquiries regarding alleged unauthorized use of third party’s intellectual property. An adverse outcome in any intellectual property litigation or negotiation could subject us to significant liabilities to third parties, require us to license technology or other intellectual property rights from others, require us to comply with injunctions to cease marketing or the use of certain products or brands, or require us to redesign, re-engineer, or rebrand certain products or packaging, any of which could affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. If we are required to seek licenses under patents or other intellectual property rights of others, we may not be able to acquire these licenses at acceptable terms, if at all. In addition, the cost of responding to an intellectual property infringement claim, in terms of legal fees, expenses, and the diversion of management resources, whether or not the claim is valid, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

If our products potentially infringe the intellectual property rights of others, we may be required to indemnify our customers for any damages they suffer. We generally indemnify our customers with respect to infringement by our products of the proprietary rights of third parties. Third parties may assert infringement claims against our customers. These claims may require us to initiate or defend protracted and costly litigation on behalf of our customers, regardless of the merits of these claims. If any of these claims succeed, we may be forced to pay damages on behalf of our customers or may be required to obtain licenses for the products they use. If we cannot obtain all necessary licenses on commercially reasonable terms, our customers may be forced to stop using our products.

We depend on certain key vendors and components.

Certain of our products, subassemblies, and system components are procured from limited sources. Our reliance on such limited sources involves certain risks, including the possibility of shortages and reduced control over delivery schedules, quality and costs, and our vendors’ access to capital at acceptable terms. Any adverse change in the supply, or price, of these

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components could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. In addition, we depend on a small number of contract manufacturing vendors for a large portion of our low-volume manufacturing business and all of our repair services for our domestic handheld meter reading units. Should any of these vendors become unable to perform up to their responsibilities, our operations could be materially disrupted.

A number of key personnel are critical to the success of our business.

Our success depends in large part on the efforts of our highly qualified technical and management personnel in all disciplines. The loss of one or more of these employees and the inability to attract and retain qualified replacements could have a material adverse effect on our business.

We may not realize the expected benefits from strategic alliances.

We have several strategic alliances with large and complex organizations and other companies with which we work to offer complementary products and services. There can be no assurance we will realize the expected benefits from these strategic alliances. If successful, these relationships may be mutually beneficial and result in shared growth. However, alliances carry an element of risk because, in most cases, we must both compete and collaborate with the same company from one market to the next. Should our strategic partnerships fail to perform, Itron could experience delays in product development or experience other operational difficulties.

Our acquisitions of and investments in third parties have risks.

We may complete additional acquisitions or make investments in the future, both within and outside of the United States. In order to finance future acquisitions, we may need to raise additional funds through public or private financings, and there are no assurances that such financing would be available at acceptable terms. Acquisitions and investments involve numerous risks such as the diversion of senior management’s attention, unsuccessful integration of the acquired entity’s personnel, operations, technologies, and products, lack of market acceptance of new services and technologies, or difficulties in operating businesses in foreign legal jurisdictions. We may experience difficulties that could affect our internal control over financial reporting, which could create a significant deficiency or material weakness in our overall internal controls under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Failure to properly or adequately address these issues could result in the diversion of management’s attention and resources and materially and adversely impact our ability to manage our business. Impairment of an investment, goodwill, or an intangible asset may also result if these risks were to materialize. For investments in entities that are not wholly owned by Itron, such as joint ventures, a loss of control as defined by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) could result in a significant change in accounting treatment and a change in the carrying value of the entity. There can be no assurances that an acquired business will perform as expected, accomplish our strategic objective, or generate significant revenues, profits, or cash flows. During prior years, we have incurred impairments of noncontrolling interest investments. In addition, acquisitions and investments in third parties may involve the assumption of obligations, significant write-offs, or other charges associated with the acquisition.

Impairment of our intangible assets, long-lived assets, goodwill, or deferred tax assets could result in significant charges that would adversely impact our future operating results.

We have significant intangible assets, long-lived assets, goodwill, and deferred tax assets that are susceptible to valuation adjustments as a result of changes in various factors or conditions.

We assess impairment of amortizable intangible and long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors that could trigger an impairment of such assets include the following:

We assess the potential impairment of goodwill each year as of October 1. We also assess the potential impairment of goodwill whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Adverse

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changes in economic conditions or our operations could affect the assumptions we use to calculate the fair value, which in turn could result in an impairment charge in future periods that would impact our results of operations and financial position in that period. Refer to Item 1: “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Critical Accounting Estimates ” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information regarding the results of our October 1, 2010 goodwill impairment assessment.

The realization of our deferred tax assets is supported in part by projections of future taxable income. We provide a valuation allowance based on estimates of future taxable income in the respective taxing jurisdiction and the amount of deferred taxes that are expected to be realizable. If future taxable income is different from that expected, we may not be able to realize some or all of the tax benefit, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial results and cash flows.

We are subject to regulatory compliance.

We are subject to various governmental regulations in all of the jurisdictions in which we conduct business. Failure to comply with current or future regulations could result in the imposition of substantial fines, suspension of production, alteration of our production processes, cessation of operations, or other actions, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Changes in environmental regulations, violations of the regulations, or future environmental liabilities could cause us to incur significant costs and adversely affect our operations.

Our business and our facilities are subject to a number of laws, regulations, and ordinances governing, among other things, the storage, discharge, handling, emission, generation, manufacture, disposal, remediation of, and exposure to toxic or other hazardous substances, and certain waste products. Many of these environmental laws and regulations subject current or previous owners or operators of land to liability for the costs of investigation, removal, or remediation of hazardous materials. In addition, these laws and regulations typically impose liability regardless of whether the owner or operator knew of, or was responsible for, the presence of any hazardous materials and regardless of whether the actions that led to the presence were conducted in compliance with the law. In the ordinary course of our business, we use metals, solvents, and similar materials, which are stored on-site. The waste created by the use of these materials is transported off-site on a regular basis by unaffiliated waste haulers. Many environmental laws and regulations require generators of waste to take remedial actions at, or in relation to, the off-site disposal location even if the disposal was conducted in compliance with the law. The requirements of these laws and regulations are complex, change frequently, and could become more stringent in the future. Failure to comply with current or future environmental regulations could result in the imposition of substantial fines, suspension of production, alteration of our production processes, cessation of operations, or other actions, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. There can be no assurance that a claim, investigation, or liability will not arise with respect to these activities, or that the cost of complying with governmental regulations in the future will not have a material adverse effect on us.

Our credit facility and the indenture related to our convertible senior subordinated notes limit our ability and the ability of most of our subsidiaries to take certain actions.

Our credit facility and convertible notes place restrictions on our ability and the ability of most of our subsidiaries to, among other things:

Our credit facility contains other customary covenants, including the requirement to meet specified financial ratios. Our ability to borrow under our credit facility will depend on the satisfaction of these covenants. Events beyond our control can affect our ability to meet those covenants. Our failure to comply with obligations under our borrowing arrangements may result in declaration of an event of default. An event of default, if not cured or waived, may permit acceleration of required payments against such indebtedness. We cannot be certain we will be able to remedy any such defaults. If our required payments are accelerated, we cannot be certain that we will have sufficient funds available to pay the indebtedness or that we will have the ability to raise sufficient capital to replace the indebtedness on terms favorable to us or at all. In addition, in the case of an event of default under our secured indebtedness such as our credit facility, the lenders may be permitted to foreclose on our assets securing that indebtedness.

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Our credit facility is sensitive to interest rate and foreign currency exchange rate risks that could impact our financial position and results of operations.

Our ability to service our indebtedness is dependent on our ability to generate cash, which is influenced by many factors beyond our control.

Our ability to make payments on or refinance our indebtedness, fund planned capital expenditures, and continue research and development will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future. This is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory, and other factors that are beyond our control, including counterparty risks with banks and other financial institutions. We may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness on or before maturity. We cannot provide assurance that we will be able to refinance any of our indebtedness on commercially reasonable terms or at all.

We are exposed to counterparty default risks with our financial institutions and insurance providers.

The financial strength of some depository institutions has diminished as a result of the recent financial crisis, and this trend may continue. If one or more of the depository institutions in which we maintain significant cash balances were to fail, our ability to access these funds might be temporarily or permanently limited, and we could face material liquidity problems and financial losses.

At December 31, 2010, we had outstanding standby letters of credit (LOC’s) of $43.5 million issued under our credit facility’s $240 million multicurrency revolver, resulting in $196.5 million being available for additional borrowings. The lenders of our credit facility consist of several participating financial institutions. Our revolving line of credit allows us to provide LOC’s in support of our obligations for customer contracts and provides additional liquidity, including an option for refinancing our convertible senior subordinated notes. Our convertible notes are classified as current due to the combination of put, call, and conversion options that are part of the terms, including the option of the holder to convert the notes between July 1, 2011 and August 1, 2011. If our lenders are not able to honor their line of credit commitments due to the loss of a participating financial institution or other circumstance, we would need to seek alternative financing, which may not be under acceptable terms, and therefore could adversely impact our ability to successfully bid on future sales contracts and adversely impact our liquidity and ability to fund some of our internal initiatives or future acquisitions.

As of December 31, 2010, approximately 93% of our outstanding term loans were at fixed London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) rates as a result of interest rate swaps. These interest rate swaps protect us against the risk of adverse fluctuations in the borrowing’s denominated LIBOR. Currently, our exposure to default risk on our interest rate swap agreements is minimal as we are in a liability position on all interest rate swaps. However, if the LIBOR rates were to significantly increase, there is a risk that one or more counterparties may be unable to meet its obligations under the swap agreement.

If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud.

Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable and accurate financial reports and effectively prevent fraud. We have devoted significant resources and time to comply with the internal control over financial reporting requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. In addition, Section 404 under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 requires that our auditors attest to the design and operating effectiveness of our controls over financial reporting. Our compliance with the annual internal control report requirement for each fiscal year will depend on the effectiveness of our financial reporting, data systems, and controls across our operating subsidiaries. Furthermore, an important part of our growth strategy has been, and will likely continue to be, the acquisition of complementary businesses, and we expect these systems and controls to become increasingly complex to the extent that we integrate acquisitions and our business grows. Likewise, the complexity of our transactions, systems, and controls may become more difficult to manage. We cannot be certain that these measures will ensure that we design, implement, and maintain adequate controls over our financial processes and reporting in the future, especially for acquisition targets that may not have been required to be in compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 at the date of acquisition. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, difficulties encountered in their implementation or operation, or difficulties in the assimilation of acquired businesses into our control system could harm our operating results or cause it to fail to meet our financial reporting obligations. Inadequate internal controls could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our stock and our access to capital.

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We rely on information technology systems.

We are dependent on information technology systems, including, but not limited to, networks, applications, and outsourced services. We continually enhance and implement new systems and processes throughout our global operations. During 2011, we are upgrading our primary enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to more compatible ERP systems that allow greater depth and breadth of functionality. System conversions are expensive and time consuming undertakings that impact all areas of the Company. While a successful implementation will provide many benefits to us, an unsuccessful or delayed implementation may cost us significant time and resources, as well as expense. The failure of these systems to operate effectively, problems with transitioning to upgraded or replacement systems, or a breach in security of these systems could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations by harming our ability to accurately forecast sales demand, manage our supply chain and production facilities, achieve accuracy in the conversion of electronic data and records, and to report financial and management information on a timely and accurate basis. In addition, due to the systemic internal control features within ERP systems, we may experience difficulties that could affect our internal control over financial reporting, which could create a significant deficiency or material weakness in our overall internal controls under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Changes in tax laws and unanticipated tax liabilities could adversely affect our effective income tax rate and profitability.

We are subject to income taxes in the United States and numerous foreign jurisdictions. Our effective income tax rate in the future could be adversely affected by a number of factors, including: changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the realization of deferred tax assets, changes in tax laws, the outcome of income tax audits in various jurisdictions around the world, and any repatriation of non-U.S. earnings for which we have not previously provided for U.S. taxes. We regularly assess all of these matters to determine the adequacy of our tax provision, which is subject to significant discretion.

Our quarterly results may fluctuate substantially due to several additional factors.

We have experienced variability in quarterly results, including losses, and believe our quarterly results will continue to fluctuate as a result of many factors, including those risks and events previously mentioned. Additional factors that may cause the price of our common stock to decline include:

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None.

The following table lists the number of factories and offices by region.

Our major manufacturing facilities are owned, while smaller factories and sales offices may be leased. Our factory locations typically consist of manufacturing, assembly, service, and/or distribution, and may also include research and development and administrative functions. Our office locations consist primarily of sales and administration functions, and may also include research and development functions. Itron North America facilities are located primarily in the United States while Itron International’s facilities are in Europe, Asia/Pacific, and throughout the rest of the world. We own our headquarters facility, which is located in Liberty Lake, Washington. Our other principal properties are owned and in good condition, and we believe our current facilities will be sufficient to support our operations for the foreseeable future.

Our U.S. operations for advanced metering communication modules are located in Waseca, Minnesota and our electricity meter operations are located in Oconee, South Carolina. Our international operations are more diversified. If any of our facilities are disrupted, our production capacity could be reduced, though most significantly in the United States.

There are no material pending legal proceedings, as defined by Item 103 of Regulation S-K, at December 31, 2010.

No matters were submitted to a vote of shareholders of Itron, Inc. during the fourth quarter of 2010.

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Market Information for Common Stock

Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market. The following table reflects the range of high and low common stock sales prices for the four quarters of 2010 and 2009 as reported by the NASDAQ Global Select Market.

Performance Graph

The following graph compares the five-year cumulative total return to shareholders on our common stock with the five-year cumulative total return of the NASDAQ Composite Index, our peer group of companies used for the year ended December 31, 2010, and our previous peer group of companies used for the year ended December 31, 2009.

The above presentation assumes $100 invested on December 31, 2005 in the common stock of Itron, Inc., the NASDAQ Composite Index, and the peer groups, with all dividends reinvested. With respect to companies in the peer groups, the returns of each such corporation have been weighted to reflect relative stock market capitalization at the beginning of each annual period plotted. The stock prices shown above for our common stock are historical and not necessarily indicative of future price performance.

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In 2010, we reassessed our peer group to identify global companies that are either direct competitors or have similar industry and business operating characteristics. Our new peer group includes the following publicly traded companies: Badger Meter, Inc., Cooper Industries, Ltd., Echelon Corporation, ESCO Technologies Inc., National Instruments Corporation, and Roper Industries, Inc. Our previous peer group included the following publicly traded companies: Badger Meter, Inc., Cooper Industries, Ltd., ESCO Technologies Inc., Mueller Water Products, LLC, National Instruments Corporation, and Roper Industries, Inc.

Holders

At January 31, 2011, there were 303 holders of record of our common stock.

Dividends

Since the inception of the Company, we have not declared or paid cash dividends. In addition, our credit facility dated April 18, 2007 prohibits the declaration or payment of a cash dividend as long as this facility is in place. Upon repayment of our borrowings, we intend to retain future earnings for the development of our business and do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future.

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The selected consolidated financial data below is derived from our consolidated financial statements, which have been audited by independent registered public accounting firms. This selected consolidated financial and other data represents portions of our financial statements. You should read this information together with Item 7: “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Item 8: “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Historical results are not necessarily indicative of future performance.

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The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with Item 8: “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Overview

We are a technology company, offering end-to-end smart metering solutions to electric, natural gas, and water utilities around the world. Our smart metering solutions, meter data management software, and knowledge application solutions bring additional value to a utility’s metering and grid systems. Our professional services help our customers project-manage, install, implement, operate, and maintain their systems.

Revenues for 2010 increased 34%, compared with 2009, primarily due to the deployment of our smart metering contracts in Itron North America. Total backlog increased 9% and twelve month backlog increased 13% in 2010, compared with 2009.

Total company gross margin decreased one percentage point in 2010, compared with 2009, due to several additional costs in 2010, the most significant including increased warranty expense of $14.4 million for arbitration claims in Sweden, which were settled in the third quarter of 2010.

Diluted earnings per share were $2.56 in 2010, compared with a diluted loss per share of $0.06 in 2009.

Total debt repayments in 2010 were $155.2 million, bringing the total debt outstanding to $610.9 million at December 31, 2010.

Total Company

Revenues

Revenues increased 34%, or $571.8 million in 2010, compared with 2009. Consolidated foreign currency fluctuations were minor in 2010, compared with 2009. Revenues decreased 12%, or $222.2 million, in 2009, compared with 2008. A strengthening U.S. dollar against most foreign currencies accounted for 46% of the decrease in 2009 revenues. A more detailed analysis of these fluctuations is provided in Operating Segment Results .

One customer, Southern California Edison of our Itron North America operating segment, represented 11% of total Company revenues for the year ended December 31, 2010. No single customer represented more than 10% of total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008. Our 10 largest customers accounted for approximately 34%, 17%, and 15% of total revenues in 2010, 2009, and 2008.

Gross Margins

Gross margin was 30.9% in 2010, compared with 31.9% in 2009. While gross margins decreased for both operating segments in 2010, the growth in Itron North America’s revenues, which are at higher average margins compared with Itron

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International, moderated the decline in the consolidated margin. Approximately two-thirds of the two percentage point decline in gross margin in 2009, compared with 2008, was due to our North America operations and one-third was attributable to our International operations. A more detailed analysis of these fluctuations is provided in Operating Segment Results.

Meter and Module Summary

Meters can be broken down into three categories:

In addition, advanced and smart meter communication modules can be sold separately from the meter. Depending on customers’ preferences, we also incorporate other vendors’ technology in our meters. A summary of our meter and communication module shipments is as follows:

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Operating Segment Results

For a description of our operating segments, refer to Item 8: “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 15: Segment Information” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The following tables and discussion highlight significant changes in trends or components of each operating segment.

Itron North America

2010 vs. 2009 Revenues: Revenues increased $561.7 million, or 91% in 2010, compared with 2009, primarily due to the deployment of our smart metering contracts in 2010. Our smart metering contracts accounted for 49% of operating segment revenues for 2010, compared with 17% in 2009. Revenues for standard and advanced meters, software, and services increased 18% in 2010, compared with 2009.

2009 vs. 2008 Revenues: Revenues decreased $81.0 million, or 12%, in 2009, compared with 2008. Revenues in 2008 included standard electricity meter and advanced communication module shipments in support of a number of advanced metering and technology contracts that were substantially completed in 2008. During 2009, these revenues were lower as utilities delayed orders due to the spending environment and the uncertainty surrounding the announcement and disbursement of stimulus funds. Smart metering systems and technology revenues began increasing in the fourth quarter of 2009 and totaled $104.4 million for the year.

2010 vs. 2009 Gross Margin: Gross margin decreased nearly one percentage point in 2010, compared with 2009, due to a higher mix of smart metering systems and technology, which currently have lower margins than advanced metering systems and technology. Gross margins on smart metering systems have improved during 2010, compared with 2009, as a result of newer generations.

2009 vs. 2008 Gross Margin: Gross margin decreased 3.4 percentage points in 2009, compared with 2008, primarily due to shipments of our first generation smart meter systems, which currently have higher costs, fewer advanced meter and communication module shipments, and reduced overhead absorption resulting from lower overall production levels.

Three customers each represented more than 10% of Itron North America operating segment revenues in 2010. No customer represented more than 10% of Itron North America operating segment revenues in 2009 and 2008.

2010 vs. 2009 Operating Expenses: Itron North America operating expenses increased $18.1 million, or 10%, in 2010, compared with 2009, primarily due to increased compensation expense from the reinstatement of our of bonus, profit sharing, and employee savings plan match, as well as increased product development costs for new and enhanced products. These

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increased expenses were partially offset by a scheduled decrease in amortization of intangible assets. As a result of higher revenues, operating expenses as a percentage of revenues decreased to 16% in 2010, compared with 28% in 2009.

2009 vs. 2008 Operating Expenses: Itron North America operating expenses decreased $10.8 million, or 6%, in 2009, compared with 2008, primarily due to lower sales expense and reduced compensation associated with our 2009 suspension of bonus, profit sharing, and employee savings plan match. Operating expenses as a percentage of revenues increased to 28% in 2009, compared with 27% in 2008, as a result of lower revenues in 2009.

Itron International

2010 vs. 2009 Revenues: Revenues increased $10.2 million, or 1%, in 2010, net of a decrease of $10.7 million as a result of a strengthening U.S. dollar against the euro, as compared with 2009. Itron International experiences variability in revenues as a result of the diverse economies in which it operates and sells its products. For this reason, during 2010 we experienced revenue growth for certain products in certain countries, but declines in others. For example, the revenues from our European-based entities experienced a decrease in export sales to the Middle East, while sales to Indonesia and India recognized significant growth. Revenue growth was also impacted by economic factors in parts of Europe and some delays in orders as customers evaluate advanced and smart metering systems and technology.

2009 vs. 2008 Revenues: Revenues decreased $141.3 million, or 12% in 2009, compared 2008. A strengthening U.S. dollar against most foreign currencies, as compared with 2008, resulted in a revenue decline of $96.5 million. The remaining decrease in revenues was the result of the completion of a smart metering project in 2008 and softening demand in some markets, such as Spain and the United Kingdom, which was due to those countries’ financial and economic conditions.

Business line revenues for Itron International were as follows:

No single customer represented more than 10% of Itron International operating segment revenues in 2010, 2009, or 2008.

2010 vs. 2009 Gross Margin: Gross margin decreased over two percentage points in 2010, compared with 2009. During 2010, we incurred warranty expense of $14.4 million for arbitration claims in Sweden, which were settled in the third quarter of 2010. Gross margin in 2010 was also lower due to higher material costs, such as copper and brass.

2009 vs. 2008 Gross Margin: Gross margin decreased just over one percentage point in 2009, compared with 2008, primarily as a result of expenses for discontinuing certain product lines and streamlining our service operations in Brazil.

2010 vs. 2009 Operating Expenses: Operating expenses were $277.6 million, or 26% of revenues, for 2010, compared with $288.2 million or 27% or revenues, for 2009. The $10.5 million decrease was the result of a scheduled reduction in amortization of intangible assets of $20 million and a $6.0 million decrease due to a stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, which was partially offset by increased sales and marketing and product development.

2009 vs. 2008 Operating Expenses: Operating expenses were $288.2 million, or 27% of revenues, for 2009, compared with $313.8 million, or 26% of revenues, in 2008. In 2009, decreased operating expense consisted of lower amortization expense of $18.0 million and a $16.5 million decrease due to a stronger U.S. dollar, which was partially offset by an increase in product development and administrative expense.

Corporate Unallocated

Operating expenses not directly associated with an operating segment are classified as “Corporate unallocated.” Corporate unallocated expenses increased $14.1 million in 2010, compared with 2009, primarily due to increased compensation expense from the reinstatement of our bonus and profit sharing plans. Corporate unallocated expenses decreased $8.2 million in 2009, compared with 2008, due primarily from reduced compensation expense associated with our 2009 suspension of bonus and profit sharing and reduced consulting fees primarily for Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 compliance. Corporate unallocated expenses, as a percentage of total Company revenues, have remained constant at 2% for 2010, 2009, and 2008.

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Total Company

Operating Expenses

The following table details our total operating expenses in dollars and as a percentage of revenues:

2010 vs. 2009: Operating expenses increased $21.6 million, or 4%, in 2010, compared with 2009, primarily as a result of increased compensation expense, which was partially offset by lower amortization of intangible assets of $29.5 million and foreign exchange fluctuations of $2.9 million.

2009 vs. 2008: Operating expenses decreased $44.6 million, or 8%, in 2009, compared with 2008, as a result of lower amortization of intangible assets of $21.7 million and foreign exchange rate fluctuations of $17.0 million, with the remaining decrease primarily due to cost containment measures.

Other Income (Expense)

The following table shows the components of other income (expense):

Interest income : Interest income is generated from our cash and cash equivalents. We hold no investments. Interest rates have continued to decline from 2008 through 2010.

Interest expense : Interest expense continues to decrease year-over-year as a result of our declining principal balance of debt outstanding. Total debt was $610.9 million, $781.8 million and $1.2 billion at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Inclusive of our interest rate swaps, our fixed rate borrowings were 93%, 85%, and 83% at December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008.

Amortization of prepaid debt fees : During 2010 and 2009, we incurred prepaid debt fees associated with our multicurrency revolving line of credit. Amortization of prepaid debt fees fluctuate each year as debt is repaid early, the related portion of unamortized prepaid debt fees is written-off.

Loss on extinguishment of debt : During the second quarter of 2009, we paid the remaining $109.2 million outstanding balance of our senior subordinated notes and recognized a loss on extinguishment of $2.5 million.

During the first quarter of 2009, we entered into exchange agreements with certain holders of our convertible notes to issue, in the aggregate, approximately 2.3 million shares of common stock, valued at $132.9 million, in exchange for, in the aggregate, $121.0 million principal amount of the convertible notes, representing 35% of the aggregate principal outstanding at the date of the exchanges. As a result, we recognized a net loss on extinguishment of debt of $10.3 million, calculated as

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the inducement loss, plus an allocation of advisory fees less the revaluation gain. For a description of the redemption of our subordinated notes and the induced conversion of a portion of our convertible notes, refer to Item 8: “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 6: Debt” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Other income (expense ) , net : Other income (expense) consists primarily of realized and unrealized foreign currency gains and losses due to balances denominated in a currency other than the reporting entity’s functional currency and other non-operating income (expenses). Expenses associated with foreign currency losses decreased to $3.1 million during 2010, while the balance of $6.0 million was due to other non-operating expenses. In 2009 and 2008 other income (expense) consisted primarily of foreign currency fluctuations.

Income Tax Provision (Benefit)

Our tax provision (benefit) as a percentage of income (loss) before tax typically differs from the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35%. Changes in our actual tax rate are subject to several factors, including fluctuations in operating results, new or revised tax legislation and accounting pronouncements, changes in the level of business in domestic and foreign jurisdictions, tax credits (including research and development and foreign tax), state income taxes, adjustments to valuation allowances, and interest expense and penalties related to uncertain tax positions, among other items. Changes in tax laws and unanticipated tax liabilities could significantly impact our tax rate.

Our tax expense as a percentage of income before tax was 13.2% for 2010. Our actual tax rate was lower than the 35% U.S. Federal statutory tax rate primarily due to: (1) earnings of our subsidiaries outside of the United States in jurisdictions where our effective tax rate is lower than in the United States; and (2) the de-recognition of a reserve for uncertain tax positions due to a change in the method of depreciation for certain foreign subsidiaries.

Our tax benefit as a percentage of loss before tax was 95.1% for 2009. Our actual tax benefit for 2009 was higher than the U.S. federal statutory rate due to a variety of factors, including: (1) lower effective tax rates on certain international earnings due to an election made under Internal Revenue Code Section 338 with respect to the Actaris acquisition in 2007; (2) benefit of foreign interest expense deductions; (3) tax planning and tax elections regarding the repatriation of foreign earnings and the associated foreign tax credits; (4) a decrease in pretax income in high tax jurisdictions for the year; and (5) a refund of taxes previously paid in foreign tax audits.

Our tax benefit as a percentage of income before tax was 6.6% for 2008. Our actual tax rate for 2008 was lower than the U.S. federal statutory rate due to a variety of factors, including lower effective tax rates on certain international earnings due to an election made under Internal Revenue Code Section 338 with respect to the Actaris acquisition in 2007. Additionally, our reduced foreign tax liability reflects the benefit of foreign interest expense deductions.

Our net deferred tax assets consist primarily of accumulated net operating loss carryforwards and tax credits that can be carried forward.

Our deferred tax assets at December 31, 2010 do not include the tax effect on $55.5 million of tax benefits from employee stock plan exercises. Common stock will be increased by $20.9 million when such excess tax benefits reduce cash taxes payable.

Our cash income tax payments for 2010, 2009, and 2008 were as follows:

For 2009 and 2008, we had operating losses for U.S. federal income tax purposes and did not pay significant cash taxes. Based on current projections, we expect to pay, net of refunds, minimal U.S. federal taxes and approximately $2.5 million in state taxes and $17.6 million in foreign and local income taxes in 2011. Recent U.S. legislation related to depreciation could have a material impact on future cash taxes and cash flow planning.

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Refer to Item 8: “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 11: Income Taxes” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of our tax provision (benefit) and unrecognized tax benefits.

Financial Condition

Cash Flow Information:

Cash and cash equivalents was $169.5 million at December 31, 2010, compared with $121.9 million at December 31, 2009. The increase was primarily due to improved operating results, partially offset by increased debt repayments. Cash and cash equivalents was $121.9 million at December 31, 2009, compared with $144.4 million at December 31, 2008. The decrease was primarily due to lower earnings and higher repayments of borrowings in excess of net proceeds from public offerings of common stock.

Operating activities:

The $113.8 million increase in cash provided by operating activities for 2010 directly corresponds with the increase in our 2010 net income, compared with 2009. Cash provided by operating activities for 2009 was $52.4 million lower, compared with 2008, primarily due to lower earnings.

Investing activities:

Net cash used in investing activities consists primarily of purchases of machinery and equipment. The 19% increase in acquisitions of property, plant, and equipment in 2010, compared with 2009, was the result of the timing of payments between the two years. The 17% decrease of cash used for property, plant, and equipment purchases in 2009, compared with 2008, was also related to the timing of payments. Contingent consideration of $4.3 million was paid during 2009 to shareholders of three pre-2009 acquisitions for the achievement of certain earn-out thresholds.

Financing activities:

During 2010, we repaid $155.2 million in borrowings, which utilized cash provided from operations. During 2009, we repaid $275.8 million in borrowings, which included utilizing $160.4 million in net proceeds from a public offering of approximately 3.2 million shares of common stock. In 2008, we repaid $388.4 million in borrowings, which included $310.9 million in net proceeds from a public offering of approximately 3.4 million shares of common stock.

Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents:

Our primary foreign currency exposure relates to non-U.S. dollar denominated transactions in our international subsidiary operations, the most significant of which is the euro. The effect of exchange rates on cash balances held in foreign currency denominations was $2.1 million, $4.8 million, and $10.3 million in 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

Non-cash transactions:

During 2009, we completed exchanges with certain holders of our convertible notes in which we issued, in the aggregate, approximately 2.3 million shares of common stock recorded at $123.4 million, in exchange for $107.8 million net carrying amount of the convertible notes and the reversal of deferred taxes of $5.8 million. Refer to Item 8: “Financial Statements and Supplemental Data, Note 6: Debt” included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a further discussion associated with the exchange agreements and the derecognition requirement for induced conversions.

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Off-balance sheet arrangements:

We have no off-balance sheet financing agreements or guarantees as defined by Item 303 of Regulation S-K at December 31, 2010 and 2009 that we believe are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Disclosures about contractual obligations and commitments:

The following table summarizes our known obligations to make future payments pursuant to certain contracts as of December 31, 2010, as well as an estimate of the timing in which these obligations are expected to be satisfied.