Much of what’s charging the Smart Grid investment discussion these days centers on software and devices that convey graphic information to consumers on their energy usage. Like jamming your foot on the accelerator of a new Fusion Hybrid from Ford and watching the green vine on its digital dashboard wilt and shed leaves, the visual feedback on smart meters from running your air conditioner during peak hours can lead to educated behavior modification.
Lovely Rita, meter maid
But the Smart Grid is more than just gee-whiz technology. While Itron (Nasdaq: ITRI), General Electric (NYSE: GE), and even Google (Nasdaq: GOOG) are giving consumers the tools to make better energy choices, just like the Fusion’s digital display, there are other equally promising areas not getting the same attention as the meter maids.
To a certain extent, that’s the nature of this emerging industry trend. Where solar, ethanol, or similar alt-energy platforms require substantial investments to build out the industry, the Smart Grid allows start-ups to develop software tools and networking devices to collect and organize the data on consumption to become the 10-baggers of the next decade.
Besides, investing in Google means you’re also investing in its search-engine prowess. Buying GE also buys you a piece of its lighting, technology, finance, and health-care businesses. These might not be bad plays, but we’re looking for Smart Grid investments.
