Utilities are being challenged by heightened environmental sensitivities, changing policymaker attitudes and consumer expectations, not to mention the need to maintain the security and reliability of aging physical assets. Research firm Gartner has identified the key information technologies they need to help them meet these challenges. via Ten technologies to help utilities in tough times Continue reading →
Machine to Machine (M2M) technology is what makes the “Smart Grid” smart. We often hear about the many benefits of smart grid technology, but we rarely examine the backbone of that concept. M2M technology that comprises the smart grid includes devices such as smart meters and other communications technology. This two way communication allows information Continue reading →
The fundamental premise of the smart grid is very simple. Energy companies need more information about what is happening in the electricity network to be able to manage supply more accurately. Consumers need more information about their energy usage to reduce consumption and expenditure, and as a nation we need to use less energy if Continue reading →
The Utility Analytics Institute has launched a new Web-based platform that promotes dialogue, research and strategy among utility analytics professionals. The site provides unbiased utility analytics research and information, and promotes the sharing of strategies, time-saving measures, best practices, cost efficiencies and lessons learned. via Renew Grid: Content / FYI / Utility Analytics Institute Debuts Continue reading →
The impact of Hurricane Sandy on electrical power systems was widespread and in many areas extensive. The key to many restoration efforts was information. Beyond using basic information about the extent of outages derived from traditional sources, some utilities and grid operations were able to get more granular and more detailed information about specific problems Continue reading →
The Next-Generation Energy and Social Systems Verification Experiment projects aimed at establishing smart cities and smart communities are proceeding in Japan. Japan Smart City Portal is the portal site for providing information on the latest trends in these projects. Introductions to a wide range of initiatives, including the verified results of Demand Response (DR) projects Continue reading →
Ford is updating its MyFord Mobile app with real-time information about nearby charging stations for customers of its hybrid electric vehicles. Ford teamed up with charge station aggregator PlugShare to integrate the company’s data into its app, which will provide real-time station information to those with the Ford C-MAX Energi and Ford Fusion Energi vehicles Continue reading →
In the 1950s and 60s, the Soviet Union used a centrally planned economy. Although it worked for a while, it eventually broke down and the country shifted to a market-based model. Our electric power system is undergoing a similar transition. For reasons I’ll explain, we must shift from central planning to a “transactive” system for Continue reading →
This month’s Smart Grid Index (SGI) results show that overall Smart Grid sentiment edged up slightly in January. Utility sentiment increased for the second month in row, up by 4 percentage points in January. Over the next 12 months, forty-one percent of respondents indicated that North America represented the best opportunity for utility related information Continue reading →
With cooperative wireless networking—a model allowing for coordinated operation among two or more wireless networks outfitted with dual or multi-mode communication devices—utilities are able to improve power system operation efficiency and reliability by acquiring more accurate and timely information. At the same time, customers can benefit from reduced energy bills and higher power quality. A Continue reading →
If you’ve had a hard time tracking down current information on the state of demand response, a new report from FERC and a free library dedicated to DR could be something to add to your holiday reading list. The FERC report, Assessment of Demand Response & Advanced Metering, presents the results of a survey of Continue reading →
If you’ve had a hard time tracking down current information on the state of demand response, a new report from FERC and a free library dedicated to DR could be something to add to your holiday reading list. The FERC report, Assessment of Demand Response & Advanced Metering, presents the results of a survey of Continue reading →
The Pacific Northwest Smart Grid Demonstration Project has gone live with technology to track information across the power system. It’s the most recent phase of a Battelle-led project intended to help develop the base information needed to allow the nation’s policymakers and utilities to understand the costs and benefits of smart grid technology. via Battelle-led Continue reading →
October 22, 2012 (CHICAGO) — The anticipated wave of near-real-time data generated by smart grid sensors and metering infrastructure is expected to present unique challenges and opportunities for utilities. The ability to effectively translate this mountain of data from raw information into actionable insight can lead to superior customer engagement, new product offerings, increased revenue, Continue reading →
Technology from Christchurch-based smart energy software company Cortexo is influencing how Meridian customers use their energy. The Smart Energy Portal was introduced in June, which expanded on the Energy Report launched last year. Consumers already demonstrated their desire for more information when they far exceeded Meridians uptake expectations of the Daily Email Report, so the Continue reading →
Residential solar systems usually don’t have much interaction with the meter attached to the side of the home. Mostly, they spin the meter’s dial backwards when they’re cranking out more power than the house is using, and get read once a month to calculate the bill. Smart meters can enable two-way communication to deliver more Continue reading →
For those who realise the necessity of caring about where energy comes from, the internet is making things easier. People now have access to real-time information on renewable energy, allowing them to make intelligent energy use decisions. For conscientious consumption of energy in Ireland, visiting www.energyelephant.com allows you to see the current status of electricity production Continue reading →
We hope you enjoyed the Smart Grid Consumer Collaborative video “Separating the Facts from the Fiction about Smart Meters”. In the process of refuting misinformation and exploring the benefits of smart meters, the video provided a number of facts originating from credible third-party sources. To discover more about any of these facts, click the text Continue reading →
Wind energy professionals across Europe now have a local source for the exchange of ideas, success stories, and information about geospatial technology for on- and offshore wind farms: the Esri European Wind User Group. The group’s mission is to discuss the best ways to meet daily challenges and learn how proven applications of geographic information Continue reading →
More than 3.7 million Florida Power & Light Co., customers now have smart meters installed at their homes and businesses, making the $800 million initiative 75 percent complete. The smart meter wirelessly sends information about electricity use to the Web, where it can be accessed by customers. via Smart Meter installation 75 percent complete | Continue reading →
