As the Senate considers cap-and-trade legislation to fight global warming, a House subcommittee convened a hearing to learn about the smart grid, which aims to increase efficiency and reduce pollution and greenhouse gases. The project appeared to have bipartisan support. “Those of us who don’t believe that global warming is caused by carbon dioxide are still very concerned about pollution,” said Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-Calif.
Energy company representatives and federal agencies agreed that the nation should move toward a smart grid. Speakers suggested how to promote its development, though most of the time was used simply to inform delegates about the system.
Panelists before the House Science and Technology Subcommittee on Energy and Environment agreed that a smart grid is expected to improve efficiency by keeping demand constant. It would let energy flow in both directions, so consumers with solar panels or wind turbines could sell power back to the utility companies, perhaps at peak hours.
The Recovery Act applied $11 billion to the project, which is in its initial phase, except in California, which has taken the lead.
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