WHAT IS SMART GRID?
The SMART GRID refers to digital technology which allows for two-way communication between the utility company and its customers. This allows for more efficient and economical usage of energy. When people have more control over their power it will reduce electricity costs, reduce peak demand and wasted energy, decrease the chances of a blackout, reduce management costs for utility companies, allow for easier integration of renewable energy, and improve security. Smart Grid is an important key to Massachusetts clean tech economy and IES is currently involved in two projects designed to grow the Smart Grid market.
Smart Grid Investor Showcase:
The Institute for Energy & Sustainability, the Canadian Consulate General of Boston and SETsquared have partnered to host a 2011 Smart Grid Venture Showcase. This event will bring the extraordinary talent of world-class entrepreneurs throughout Northeastern United States, Canada and the United Kingdom together to pitch their companies smart grid products, innovations and technologies to an audience of angel investors, financiers, utility companies, potential customers and partners, read more here >>>>
National Grid–Smart Grid Pilot:
IES is collaborating with National Grid to provide professional consulting and program development in the education and community outreach aspects of their $57 million dollar, 15,000 home Smart Grid pilot project in southern Worcester. IES will fulfill this role by:increasing local business participation;assisting development of spin-off smart meter vendors and entrepreneurs;facilitating collaboration with Clark University, WPI and universities in the United Kingdom researching National Grid’s UK smart grid project;creating student and community opportunities for involvement;identifying innovative research areas; and encouraging participation of researchers and community members in this new initiative.
**National Grid Announces Green2Growth Sustainability Summit**
Worcester Business Journal: Worcester Smart Grid Gets DPU approval
Additional Program Information at National Grid Smart Grid webpage
Smart Grid News Jesse Berst Interviews OPOWER VP Ogi Kavazovic about Smart Grid and utilities
U.S. News and World Report Ranks Worcester among 10 Best Smart Grid Cities
Worcester Business Journal: Revised Smart Grid Planned for Worcester
Worcester Telegram & Gazette: Pilot Program to Start in June
