Google’s PowerMeter is making huge strides in leapfrogging the lumbering smart meter installation process, with utilities slowly integrating them into the nation-wide smart grid upgrade. For a quick refresher: the smart grid is an electric grid that is wholly connected, from energy source to end user, so that everyone who participates in the grid can be more effective in minimizing energy consumption. On the consumer’s end, a smart meter enables a dialogue between the utility company and the building, allowing for real time pricing and detailed feedback on consumption habits. However, despite the fact that several utilities are racing to install the latest hardware in homes and buildings, could Google be making the effort a waste of time? It’s a question being asked as the company lands partnerships with more device manufacturers that consumers can get ahold of and use without waiting around for utility companies to get their act together.
via Does Google’s PowerMeter Make Smart Meters Irrelevant? : TreeHugger.
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