Smart Grid
The smart grid is a digital network that unites electrical providers, power-delivery systems and customers, and allows two-way communication between the utility and its customers. Smart grids have the potential to improve the efficiency of energy distribution and usage, both through the grid's design and through consumer participation. Though smart grids aren’t in widespread use yet in the United States, some U.S. utilities have begun smart grid pilot projects or have deployed smart meters in residential areas.
It is estimated that smart grid enhancements will ease congestion and increase utilization (of full capacity), sending 50% to 300% more electricity through existing energy corridors. Given population growth and the exponential increase in the number of power-hungry digital components in our digital economy, additional infrastructure must be built – Smart or not.
Text by Noel Kirkpatrick
(Photo: meneldur/Flickr)
Articles about Smart Grid
Thu, Feb 02 2012 at 1:20 PM EST
As California's new Advanced Clean Cars rules push electric vehicles one step closer to the mass market, could the smart grid be the sequel to 'California emissions'?Wed, Jan 25 2012 at 3:45 PM EST
Chief Technology Officer Aneesh Chopra announces Green Button, an effort to make understanding (and adjusting) household energy consumption easier through a standardized online platform.Tue, Jan 24 2012 at 8:28 AM EST
The picture of U.S. energy usage has changed dramatically over the years. So where does all of that juice go?Tue, Dec 13 2011 at 11:51 AM EST
The $37 million project is expected to go online in 2013.Mon, Dec 05 2011 at 3:57 PM EST
Report: A federal agency should work with the power industry and have the appropriate regulatory authority to enhance cybersecurity preparedness and recovery.Mon, Sep 26 2011 at 10:21 AM EST
Electricity consumption is already higher than ever, and experts say it will only continue to rise. What are the long-term implications for your wallet?Mon, Sep 05 2011 at 4:48 AM EST
Two proposed energy projects (each with a $7 billion price tag) present two very different directions for America's future. Which would you choose?Wed, Aug 03 2011 at 9:00 PM EST
In response to Japan's power crunch resulting from the Fukushima disaster, Nissan unveils a two-way charging system that makes it possible for your home to be powered by your car during power shortages. Wed, Jun 29 2011 at 1:54 PM EST
The 57,000-acre San Andres Refuge, which works to restore desert bighorn sheep, launched its quest for energy independence in 2005 and has implemented several significant energy-saving practices since.Tue, Jun 14 2011 at 4:14 PM EST
A panel of experts discussed the Obama administration's plan for upgrading the nation's electric grid.- 1. Recipes
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