Smart Grid News

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.

Source: The Smart Grid: An Introduction (via Energy.gov)

Text by Noel Kirkpatrick

(Photo: meneldur/Flickr)

Articles about Smart Grid

Maui to build expansive smart grid

Tue, Dec 13 2011 at 11:51 AM

The $37 million project is expected to go online in 2013.
U.S. power grid needs cybersecurity shield

Mon, Dec 05 2011 at 3:57 PM

Report: A federal agency should work with the power industry and have the appropriate regulatory authority to enhance cybersecurity preparedness and recovery.
Infographic: The hidden cost of household gadgets

Mon, Sep 26 2011 at 10:21 AM

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?
How would you spend $7 billion?

Mon, Sep 05 2011 at 4:48 AM

Two proposed energy projects (each with a $7 billion price tag) present two very different directions for America's future. Which would you choose?
'Leaf to Home': A charging system that powers your EV (and then some)

Wed, Aug 03 2011 at 9:00 PM

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.
How a New Mexico wildlife refuge ended up with an electric bill of $0

Wed, Jun 29 2011 at 1:54 PM

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.
Watch: Building the 21st century grid

Tue, Jun 14 2011 at 4:14 PM

A panel of experts discussed the Obama administration's plan for upgrading the nation's electric grid.
Energy monitoring: Taking it to the streets in Brighton

Wed, Apr 20 2011 at 7:13 PM

Keeping up with Joneses takes on an interesting new form as residents of Tidy Street in Brighton, U.K. record their daily electric usage in a very public manner as part of a community energy awareness campaign.
Forgot to turn off the lights? There's an app for that

Mon, Apr 18 2011 at 5:06 PM

Zerofootprint's TalkingPlug device turns everyday electrical outlets into miniature communications hubs, allowing remote monitoring and control of energy use by smartphone. Think of it as two more prongs in the coming smart grid revolution.
Verizon Wireless and the environment

Mon, Mar 14 2011 at 4:34 PM

Company is venturing into smart grid technology in a big way in Charlotte.

MNN - Mother Nature Network

Smart Grid

Articles about Smart Grid

Maui to build expansive smart grid

U.S. power grid needs cybersecurity shield

Infographic: The hidden cost of household gadgets

How would you spend $7 billion?

'Leaf to Home': A charging system that powers your EV (and then some)

How a New Mexico wildlife refuge ended up with an electric bill of $0

Watch: Building the 21st century grid

Energy monitoring: Taking it to the streets in Brighton

Forgot to turn off the lights? There's an app for that

Verizon Wireless and the environment

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