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Central and Eastern European smart grid projects are progressing, but the customer is not a part of it.

nyoung — Thu, 17 May 2012 13:17:11 +0000

I have just returned from the 2012 Smart Utilities Central & Eastern Europe conference in Prague. The event was very well organized, with a large number of delegates from local utilities, all looking to learn how to deploy smart grids and smart meter systems. There are a large number of pilots and legislative drivers happening across the region, and so it was an interesting conference, hearing a different perspective on how the rollouts are approached compared to other parts of Europe.

However, there was one word missing, which should have been on everyone’s lips: Customer. Not one of the utilities from the region mentioned their customers, and how they would benefit from improved technology. No-one seemed aware of issues around data privacy and consumer engagement. Utilities from other parts of Europe – Germany, the Netherlands quite rightly put their customers and the security of their data at the top of the list of priorities when deploying a smart energy network, but this angle was completely missing from the strategies of the CEE utilities. Quite how customers are meant to benefit from all the new energy technology coming down the line just wasn’t discussed. In fact, some of the utilities were plain hostile to new technologies such as micro-generation and renewables – they see them as messing with their well-managed grid.

We’ve already seen smart meter deployments run into issues around data privacy and customer consent in Europe, America and Asia, so its an issue that’s out there and waiting to be uncovered. I think a lot of the issue comes firstly from the market structure; with the ex-state DSOs being responsible for metering, their background is hardly customer focused, and this attitude filters through. Secondly, a certain naivety about the way the market is moving for energy – upward prices are only going to increase the demands from customers for ways to reduce their own costs.

This is all not to say that smart metering won’t happen in Central & Eastern Europe – it will. Some countries are moving faster than others, and some utilites are actively investigating all the options – but all are driven by the same EU legislative environment. As the technology becomes more widespread, so even the most distant utility will be forced to concede that the customer needs to be connected more dynamically to the grid.

Challenges of marketing the smart meter rollout in the UK

nyoung — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:55:34 +0000

I have been doing some marketing work with one of our energy supplier customers here in the UK, and they have been explaining to me their plans for marketing smart meters to their customer base, to ensure wide adoption and acceptance. It revolves around community champions and drip feeding positive stories out to local bodies and groups that can influence their local community.

This makes a lot of sense. The upcoming smart meter rollout will take around 7 or 8 years to complete across the nation. Every home will be visited, and every energy user and bill payer will have new tools at their disposal for managing their energy use. To get these people excited about having a smart meter, without having to tell them they are at the bottom of an 8 year queue is a challenge that the energy suppliers have yet to embrace. There seems to be a widespread assumption that smart meter marketing will be in a similar vein to the digital TV switchover. However, this was a campaign run on a region-by-region basis, to consumers who were obligated to update their own equipment at a time that suited them. This is the complete opposite of the smart meter rollout, which will have a national focus, and is aimed at people not empowered to upgrade to a smart meter whenever they want.

So the question is, how do you engage consumers in being positive about a smart meter, without running a massive 8 year, national campaign which, as well as being extortionately expensive, would be talking to an irrelevant audience for much of that time. Some thoughts below:

Local focus – By focusing on specific areas and rolling out smart meters, ideally on a street-by-street basis, the smart meter supplier can run a highly targeted, even personal marketing campaign to ensure meter acceptance. Knowing that everyone you are targeting is going to get a meter in the next few weeks allows much more dynamic messaging and social interaction – competitions, use of local influencers and fosters a community spirit that means the laggards want to keep up with the Joneses.
Early Adopter Segmentation – Smart Meters are a new technology in the home. When rolling out a new technology, the tried and trusted route of finding early adopters who actively want the smart meter, and can evangelise about the benefits is a sensible way to proceed. The rollout then follows the path of least resistance, with people hearing about and discovering the benefits of smart meters for themselves, leading to mass market adoption. To roll out smart meters as part of a standard meter replacement programme does not fit with this model – cynics and laggards will be getting the smart meter at the same time as some early adopters, meaning that the messages to market are completely mixed, making it harder to succeed.
Institutional support – Smart Meters offer significant benefit to those in fuel poverty and with other social issues, by allowing them a greater level of control and choice over how they use their energy and pay their bills. By introducing smart meters to this sector early in the rollout, any negative perception around the smart meter service can be dissipated and allow the rollout to proceed nationally with credentials and benefit obvious to the wider market. This also allows the engagement of local councils and other local bodies who can promote the benefits of smart meters within their own communities.
Learning Support – By introducing the concept of energy saving as a matter of course, whether it is through teaching in schools or wider educational programmes for the adult population, the wait for a smart meter will have a softer impact for those that are at the end of the waiting list. They can start using hints and tips to start saving energy and thus money without a smart meter. When the smart meter does arrive, the behavioural changes can be validated by the customer in their home. This can also be validated by friends and family who have a smart meter and are able to offer their learnings to those that do not.

Whatever the eventual marketing campaign for the smart meter rollout looks like, it needs to ensure that it does not alienate the large portion of the population who will be a long way from receiving a smart meter, and the cost savings that they bring.

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The UK market has moved from ideas to reality

nyoung — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 12:12:18 +0000

Earlier this week, Trilliant participated in the SSWG and Zigbee alliance interoperability event, in Westminster, to demonstrate that the HAN technology needed to deploy smart meters in the UK is keeping pace with the legislative requirements of the proposed smart meter rollout. It was great to see the vendor community working together to showcase that the market has moved on significantly from where it was even a year ago. The event was aimed at key stakeholders in government and the energy supply business, showing that interoperability enables choice and will allow projects to get off the ground rapidly. The bespoke integration of components in the smart meter environment is no longer a barrier to adoption.

The event demonstrated that the UK market has genuinely moved from ideas and specifications to technical and commercial reality. Any doubts raised in the past have been firmly blown away – the technology that forms the basis of smart metering in UK homes works, and from this point on will develop, grow and evolve with the market.

The UK market is seeing significant activity – British Gas are rolling out smart meters to millions of homes, and the other energy retailers are following closely behind.

However, the market still has some way to go before we can claim that the technology is ready for plug and play and horizontal adoption in the home. Zigbee SEP 1.1 allows interoperability to be taken to heart by the wide variety of vendors in the market. But there are some steps needed to ensure that a HAN rollout is a pain free experience for consumers and energy retailers alike. The good thing about the Zigbee specification is that it recognises this and will continue to evolve.

Ecosystem development – there are still only a relatively few number of in-home vendors in the market. For the Zigbee HAN to truly be ubiquitous, there needs to be commitment from other service providers who would benefit from the use of the HAN. In the energy world, further meter providers and energy service providers need to bring their products into the Zigbee fold. Outside of the energy world, appliance manufacturers and other in-home service providers such as security and healthcare need to take advantage and build interoperable in-home products that allow new revenue models and value to be built for the homeowner.
Channels to market – currently the energy retailers are providing the only channel to market for HAN technology in the home, via the smart meter rollout. However, its not difficult to foresee that the HAN does not have to be tied to energy services in the future, and can be driven by any service provider willing to provide the technology. with enough service providers and benefits on board, it is likely that the consumer themselves will want to invest in a Zigbee HAN, rather than waiting for the smart meter rollout to reach them.
Cost Reduction – Of course, HAN technologies follow the technology adoption curve, just like any other technology. Today we are at the beginning of that curve, and so the required components are expensive to procure, and the skills needed to integrate them sparse on the ground. However, as the market progresses, cost of these components will come down, meaning that ubiquitous HAN components will be available in volume.
Genuine plug and play – Most consumers want equipment they buy to just work. HAN technology is still some way from that ideal, with consumer equipment tied to individual providers and required a complex setup in some cases. This is largely to ensure that an element of control is maintained, and that security processes are not breached. However, for the consumer to buy-in extensively to HAN services, the components will need to ‘just work’ out of the box. This is a challenge that is not insurmountable, but keeping the network secure and available requires a large amount of effort to ensure HAN specifications are allowed to evolve and meet the needs of consumers over time
Merger of HAN profiles. Today, there are several different profiles for Zigbee HAN profiles – energy, home automation, healthcare etc. This model works right now as it allows each community to focus on what they need in order to offer a service. However, in the future there is likely to be significant overlap between many of these profiles, and so the creation of a central core to which any vertical service can apply itself is a sensible way to proceed and allow single HAN systems to be widely deployed.

Today, the market for HAN has taken a significant step forwards in the UK. But to ensure that product is fit for consumer use, there are still a number of hurdles to get over. However, the industry has demonstrated that it is willing to work together through standards bodies such as the SSWG and the Zigbee alliance to create a single ecosystem appropriate for rollout to every UK home. And by working together, we will be able to continue the turning of ideas into the reality of a rich in-home experience for all.

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Some Considerations for Smart Meter Installations

nyoung — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 10:32:59 +0000

Smart Meter installations require a revised approach and new skill sets compared to existing meter installs. A whole new range of skills needs to be used, and the utility deploying smart meters must take steps to equipment its field teams. Very few people out there have electrical, gas safety and communications qualifications, and it’s unlikely that a utility will find them amongst their existing staff.

Therefore, a full training programme for installation engineers needs to be put in place before a smart meter rollout can commence. This is a tricky balance to get right. Do utilities train an engineer in multiple tasks, put more engineers in a single van, or make multiple appointments at the same premises to complete all the necessary work? The answer depends on several factors. Some utilities put the needs of the installation engineers above all other requirements – the engineer is trained to do a single task, and not deviate from that process. However, allowing the installation engineer some flexibility on site means that the utility can be flexible in the technology options they adopt. For example, if installation is in an area of no communications coverage, then empowering the engineer to move the install site or use an alternative technology means a better customer experience and a lower install cost due to less return visits. Conversely, the ability to put multiple skills in the same van is difficult to co-ordinate and may mean that a simple, scripted installation process by one engineer with no flexibility is easier to achieve.

Ultimately, for the majority of time that an engineer is on a customer premises, they will have their head in the hole where the meters lie. However, this doesn’t change the fact that the first interaction that a homeowner is likely to have with their new smart meter is via the installation engineer, so they need to not just be qualified, but a customer facing resource as well. Small things can make a big difference to the homeowner – arriving on time, being able to answer any questions or concerns on site and cleaning up after installation all go a long way to ensuring the customer is happy with their smart meter, and through association, their energy provider.

In short, smart meter installation engineers are the face of the deployment programme – they are who the customer interacts with, and a source of immediate knowledge on cutting energy consumption. These engineers need to be selected and trained carefully, as the success of a rollout could hinge on the first impression they give.

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Some Considerations for Smart Meter Installations was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Policy, Climate Change, Gold in Smart Grid Data and More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 16:00:37 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

A Discussion on Policy for U.S. Smart Grid Interoperability
This article jumps right into the discussion that took place between some of the experts in the field in Boulder, Colorado. The experts in Smart Grid tech got together to discuss the role of standards for U.S. Smart Grids.

Can the Smart Grid Solve Climate Change?
Many at the United Nations Climate Change Conference have some very strong opinions about the future of climate change and some possible solutions for it. Now that Smart Grid technology is on the rise, many are wondering exactly what its role in climate change will be. This is a great read with great insight into a major discussion.

Once Again: Consumer Education Key to Consumer Acceptance for Smart Meters
A widespread belief among Smart Grid experts is that consumer education is an absolute requirement in order to have consumer acceptance of Smart Meter and Smart Grid technology. This article goes into more depth and backs it up with concrete data from Pike Research.

Report Shows Why Smart Grid Tech Involves Many Different Elements
Educating the general public on the Smart Grid can be a challenge. Considering the results of this recent report that draws in just how many different elements make up Smart Grid technology, it’s not surprising to see just how challenging that might actually be. This is a great read into what makes the Smart Grid tick.

Why There is Gold in Smart Grid Data
The sheer amount of data that will be created, processed and stored with Smart Grid technology will be astronomical. Now, people are wondering what the value of that data might be. Why IS there “gold” in Smart Grid data? This article jumps into exactly why.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Grid Policy, Climate Change, Gold in Smart Grid Data and More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Education, Powering the Smart Grid Promise and More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 16:00:20 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

3 Key Documents To Help Get Your Brain Around Smart Grid
Here is a great article with 3 great documents to help you make sense of all the information, insight and technology that surrounds Smart Grid tech. Brilliant look into what is really driving it and where it could take us.

Smart Grid, Your House, Electric Cars & You
In the future of Smart Grid technology, your grid, house, and smart electric car will all be connected. How will this all look, feel and affect our lives? This article dives into that exact question and tries to describe it in clear terms.

Is Smart Meter Education Lacking?
Many believe widespread adoption of Smart Grid and Smart Meter technology is currently only being delayed by a lack of education. This article asks that very same question and jumps into discovering what the current education is surrounding Smart technology.

Powering the Smart Grid Promise
The promise of Smart Grid technology, and how it could affect the future of energy and energy efficiency has been around for some time. Now it’s time to power that promise and start delivering. This article covers the hype and the followthrough of all that. Great interesting read.

What are Some Predictions about the Future of U.S. Smart Grid?
Ask 20 people about the future of Smart Grid technology and you’ll get 20 different answers. This article tries to investigate potential future implications of Smart Grid and Smart Meter technology and how things could change. What should we be looking for, and when?

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Grid Education, Powering the Smart Grid Promise and More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Global Spending, No Health Threat from Smart Meters and More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:00:05 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

Smart Grid Research Shows No Health Threat from Smart Meters
Great news for Smart Grid and Smart Meters as new research is showing that there is absolutely no health threat from Smart Meters. Rumors came out that there could be an inherent risk with Smart Meters installed in your home, these reports nullify that.

Smart Grid Good News: Smart Appliance Sales Could hit 118 Million by 2019
The Smart Grid needs smart appliances to help keep things running efficiently, so this news comes as particularly good. If the projections are accurate, 118 million units of new smart appliances could happen by 2019.

More Info on Smart Grid Distribution Automation Spending to Hit $46 Billion by 2015
Experts agree that in the next 4 years, Smart Grid Distribution Automation Spending could hit a whopping $46 billion. This article is a great jump into the next few years of Smart Grid technology and distribution automation.

Trilliant Wins $1 Million Smart Meter Rollout with British Gas
More great information on Trilliant’s $1 million project with British Gas to rollout Smart Meters to their entire customer base. This could provide a great leap into European projects and overseas development.

Surprises to Come in Years Ahead Based on Global Rankings of Smart Grid Spending
If you want to know what countries made the top 10 list of global Smart Grid spending, this article has it all. Interesting to see which countries made the list and how these rankings could provide some interesting shakeups in the next few years to come.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Grid Global Spending, No Health Threat from Smart Meters and More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Managed Services Growth, MicroGrid Opportunities and More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 16:00:03 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

Smart Grid Managed Services Could Grow 75% By 2011!
New studies are out showing that there is a strong possibility that the Smart Grid managed services could grow 75% year-over-year between 2010 and 2011. To meet this, how will utilities handle the increased demand and handle the challenges?

Secure Communications & Computer Operations to top Smart Grid Investments?
Debates are still going on about Smart Grid cyber security and many are wondering now if in the months and years to come, secure communications and computer operations might be the number one investment into Smart Grid Cyber Security. It will be interesting to see where finances fall.

Festival Hydro & Trilliant Team Up To Bring Efficient Reliable Energy to Customers
Here is great press release with information on how Festival Hydro and Trilliant have created a partnership of sorts to help bring reliable, efficient and much greener energy to customers. We can’t wait to see projects like this popping up all over the country and world.

What are Opportunities for MicroGrids in the Emerging Smart Grid
Many believe that Microgrids are a very important emerging sector of the Smart Grid market and many believe it will experience a great deal of growth in the next few years. With that knowledge, experts are wondering about what different opportunities are truly available for Microgrids, and how it could evolve.

Reactions to Smart Grid “10 Trends to Watch”
Here is a great follow-up piece to Pike Research’s white paper Smart Grid: 10 Trends to Watch in 2011 and Beyond. This article goes over the 10 trends and chronicles the comments and beliefs many wrote in and discussed concerning those projected trends.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Grid Managed Services Growth, MicroGrid Opportunities and More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Professionals, Smart Grid Conference, Internal Sharing of Energy Info and More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:00:42 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

Survey Shows Smart Grid Professionals In Short Supply
New studies are out showing that Smart Grid professionals are in short supply across the industry. Could this news affect future graduates make important job decisions? The industry is in need.

Why the Smart Grid is an All Around Smart Idea
Experts are sounding off, putting to rest any notions that the Smart Grid is not a great idea. The economic potential of the Smart Grid, they believe, can have a massive impact on so many different industries, in so many different ways.

Thoughts On The Smart Grid Technology Conference
Here is an article with expert thoughts on the Smart Grid Technology conference held in London last week. This piece discusses various themes and discussions that were interwoven into the Smart Grid conference.

Internal Sharing of Energy Information to Support Smart Grids
More on how the internal sharing of energy information is absolutely crucial to the support of Smart Grids. Experts believe that every single building and group of buildings must become a microgrid. They all must be responsible for managing energy use, generation, storage and market operations.

Some Rule Making for Smart Grid Standards
When developing Smart Grid standards, it’s becoming apparent that some rules are needed. This article goes into detail about the rule making that will need to take place to ensure that Smart Grid standards are appropriate and relevant.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Grid Professionals, Smart Grid Conference, Internal Sharing of Energy Info and More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

MicroGrids, New Trends in Smart Grid Tech, Consumer Trust and More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 16:00:20 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

Are MicroGrids A Smart First Step for the Smart Grid?
An interesting question with interesting possible answers as many are wondering if Smart MicroGrids are the smartest first step for the Smart Grid. Many wonder if the best deployment strategy is to first deploy multiple smaller “MicroGrids” first and later deploy the larger and more connected network.

Smart Grid Tech: Transmission Is Getting Smarter With Advanced Power Electronics
With experts sounding off that transmission is the “unsung song” of the Smart Grid and utility grids of the future, this article dives into exactly how that transmission is getting smarter. Through the use of advanced power electronics, could reliability, security, capacity and efficiency all be boosted?

What are 10 New Trends of the Smart Grid Industry?
The future of energy efficiency is coming soon and Smart Grid technology is leading the charge. What are some of the trends that will be affecting Smart Grid technology in the near future? This article sounds off on 10 things they think will shape the Smart Grid in 2011 and beyond..

For Consumer Trust in Smart Grid, Education Must Come First
While many would think that consumer support of the Smart Grid would be simple and unanimous, it hasn’t gone that way yet. Experts, responding to new research, are finding that in order for consumers to completely trust in Smart Grid technology, education must come first.

How Do You Dissect The Cost of the Smart Grid?
From the cost of installing smart meters into homes to the cost of deploying home area networks, this article tries to clear up and explain the dissection of the costs of Smart Grid technology.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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MicroGrids, New Trends in Smart Grid Tech, Consumer Trust and More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Selling the Smart Grid, Foundational Smart Grid Standards, Consumer Engagement and More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 15:00:06 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

More on Denton Municipal Electric Selecting Trilliant For Expanded Smart Grid Deployment
Here’s more great information and insight into Trilliant being selected as the communication network solution for all of Denton Municipal Electric’s Smart Grid implementations. Great news of a great partnership!

Selling the Smart Grid to Consumers
Many believe and agree that the Smart Grid is essential to improving energy efficiency and reducing C02 emissions, but in order to achieve its necessary success it must be properly sold to consumers. How will this affect future pricing models and implementation standards?

NIST Identifies 5 Foundational Smart Grid Standards
Speaking of Smart Grid Standards, the Commerce Department’s National Institute of Standards and Technology has now established and identified 5 “foundational” Smart Grid Standards. The standards focus on information models as well as protocols that are vital to reliable operations and Smart Grid security.

Renewable Energy: A What If?
Great editorial article about a great deal of “What If” questions that surround renewable energy and the future of technology like the Smart Grid. Interesting to see outside views on exactly what could become of renewable energy and the future of energy in our country.

GridWeek Tackles Smart Grid Consumer Engagement
After agreeing that consumer engagement is critical for Smart Grid success, those involved with GridWeek focused on exactly that last week. From dialogue and understanding to a roundtable facing key industry challenges, and consumers shifting to customers was the key focus.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Selling the Smart Grid, Foundational Smart Grid Standards, Consumer Engagement and More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Meters Saving Lives, Toyota On Smart Grid Bandwagon and More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 15:00:52 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

Can Smart Gas Meters Help Save Lives?
Amazingly informative article about how Smart Gas Meters might actually be able to save lives in the event of an emergency or accident. By monitoring power quality, outage prevention and load planning, they might be able to prevent a great deal of gas related mistakes and accidents. The future could be a lot safer!

Department of Energy is Working to Secure the Smart Electric Grid
Looks like the Department of Energy is working hard to ensure that the Smart Grid, once fully deployed, is secure against any and all attacks. Projects from government grants are working hard to find and patch security holes that might open up in the upcoming Smart Grid.

Toyota to Hop on the Smart Grid Bandwagon?
Could it be that one of the most successful car manufacturers in the world is getting aboard the Smart Grid bandwagon? Looks like it as Toyota is looking to sell computer systems that will link upcoming electric cars to the home and utilities grid so you know exactly how much energy you use, and need. Welcome aboard Toyota.

Ok, So What Exactly Is The Smart Grid?
What’s simple is true and that’s exactly what this article is looking to do, provide simple truths. With education and knowledge about the Smart Grid lower than it should be, this article helps to explain in complete terms what the Smart Grid is and what it will offer us and our future in energy consumption and conservation.

Trilliant Becomes one of AlwaysOn’s GoingGreen Silicon Valley 100 Winners
Amazing news for Trilliant as we’ve officially been named one of AlwaysOn’s GoingGreen Silicon Valley 100 Winners! All of the 100 companies selected will be honored at their 4^th annual GoingGreen Silicon Valley, a two and a half day executive event in San Francisco, California.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Meters Saving Lives, Toyota On Smart Grid Bandwagon and More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Projects, Smart Grid Automation, Privacy & More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 15:00:47 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

How Grandma Can Love the Smart Grid
Brilliant article on how one subset of the population is going to love the upcoming Smart Grid. That’s right, would you have believed that senior citizens would be one of the groups to most benefit from Smart Grid incentives and new programs? This is exactly how our elderly population can love the Smart Grid.

Princeton, IL Makes Waves with Smart Grid Project
Great to see Smart Grid projects popping up across the nation, and Princeton, IL is looking to make waves with its newest. Apparently, Princeton is receiving a $700,000 energy efficiency grant from the state of Illinois and will take that money to build a Smart Grid that will serve 3700 residential and 600 commercial and industrial customers.

Smart Grid Automation Is Officially On The Rise!
New GTM research is forecasting some interesting news in Smart Grid trends. According to their reports, Smart Grid distribution automation is on the rise and they predict it to be the fastest-growing smart grid market segment in the months and years to come.

The Effectiveness of Making Use of Smart Meters in Every House
Energy saving methods are extremely important in today’s society. From environmental to economic reasons, there are so many things making it one of the most crucial steps being taken. Smart Meters, according to these reports, might be one of the most effective methods of helping that process.

More on Privacy on the Smart Grid
As long as the Smart Grid is being discussed, Privacy will be a hot button issue and center of much debate. This article dives more into how it doesn’t have to be that way and how smart meters won’t be the spies many opponents proclaim them to be.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Grid Projects, Smart Grid Automation, Privacy & More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Smart Data, The Smart Grid Behind Electric Cars and More…

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:00:59 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

Does Smart Grid Mean Smart Data?
While much of the attention and talk about the Smart Grid is centered on the concept of a power grid that can send electricity and communicate two ways, one question is being left out. That question is: What will be done with the huge quantities of Smart Grid data that is collected on the system?

The Smart Grid Behind Electric Cars
Everyone has heard multitudes about Smart Grid technology, the ideas behind it and its possible deployment, but many are wondering about the infrastructure that will behind electric cars. This article dives into the topic of the Smart Grid that might be backing up the fleet of electric cars to come in the future.

Department of Energy Wants To Know Your Thoughts on Smart Grid Benefits
How does the population of the United States feel about the benefits of Smart Grid technology? That’s the question that the United States Department of Energy is asking to see how people feel about the technology, its benefits and any possible issues related to the Smart Grid.

Why Los Angeles Needs A Smart Grid As Soon As Possible
With Los Angeles suffering from record breaking high temperatures over the past few weeks, many believe it’s the perfect time to discuss its need for Smart Grid technology. Experts agree, simply telling customers to turn off the lights and turn off appliances is not the best way to deal with extreme demands. Will the Smart Grid come to Los Angeles soon?

Debunking the 3 Biggest Myths on Investing in Smart Grid Tech:
After the extreme rollercoaster boom and bust of the dotcom industry, it’s not surprising to see that people are cautious to invest in Smart Grid technology. This article is aiming to debunk the 3 biggest myths that are possibly keeping people from investing on the future of energy management.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Grid Smart Data, The Smart Grid Behind Electric Cars and More… was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid PR Consultants, Smart Grid Decade & More: 10/5/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 15:00:31 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

Calling All Troops for Smart Grid Deployment!
With $4.5 billion in U.S. Government stimulus money ready to be spread out, things could speed up, way up for Smart Grid deployment. How will the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding affect Smart Grid and the future of the technology? We’ll see…

FCC Urged to Help Advance Smart Grid Technologies
How will the FCC respond to urges from the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s urges that they ensure that Smart Grid technologies use the white space between television channels? With final votes coming through from the FCC, time will tell if this could be a reliable solution.

Does the Smart Grid need more PR Consultants?
Looks like Smart Grid has finally hit the big time! In a move that might spread in popularity, one city has actually started saying “yes” to Smart Grid Public Relations Consultants to help effectively spread the message of Smart Grid tech. Will this work and if so, should other areas be doing the same thing to spread awareness?

Experts Agree at Smart Grid Summit: Smart Grid Decade Has Arrived
If the experts at the Smart Grid Summit have anything to say about it, we’re officially in the Smart Grid Decade. They believe that significant trends in the industry are all aligning to truly make Smart Grid technology the most important advancement in these 10 years. Do you agree?

Central Maine Power & Trilliant’s Smart Meter Project Gets Ink
Here is more great information on the exciting and revolutionary project between Central Maine Power Co. and Trilliant using Smart Meter technology. They are removing 600,000 old-style electric meters from every home and business they serve and replacing them with Smart Meters from Trilliant.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Grid PR Consultants, Smart Grid Decade & More: 10/5/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Webinar: Planning for Success – Considerations for Deploying and Managing a Full-Scale Smart Grid

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 16:58:55 +0000

Hosted by Energy Central

A full-scale Smart Grid – which integrates distribution automation, metering, and demand-side management – promises long-term benefits through operational efficiencies, renewable resources integration, peak-demand shifting and consumer-enablement programs. Realizing these benefits, though, requires forethought about how the Smart Grid impacts the IT department and the head-end systems required to manage it.

Smart Grid & the Environment, Lean Smart Grids & More: 09/28/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 15:00:59 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

How Do We Pick Up The Pace on Building Smart Grids?
SmartPlanet.com asks some great questions in this article, and provides some interesting insight as to how the world can actually pick up the pace on the building process for Smart Grids. The bottom line they found was that Smart Grid potential won’t be reached until they boost customer interaction with utilities.

How Can We Implement the “Lean” Smart Grid?
More information on one of the biggest questions being asked surrounding the Smart Grid: How can we implement the Lean Smart Grid? As mentioned in this article, going forward with the Smart Grid the course will be decided not by how high the technology is, but how it is implemented.

Will Lithium Batteries Dominate Short-Term Smart Grid Storage?
Smart storage systems might be the biggest factor in the success of the Smart Grid going forward. Questions are now popping up as to how electricity will be stored in the Smart Grid. Many believe and are wondering if lithium batteries will be the most common Smart Grid storage option. What do you think?

Secure the Smart Grid & Improve the Environment?
A huge connection is being attempted and explained in this great article. That connection is whether or not a correlation can be found between securing the Smart Grid and actually improving the environment in the process. Brilliant read.

10 Things We Need to Consider Before Smart Meter Deployment
Experts agree that smart metering requires even smarter planning ahead. This article provides 10 things that should be heavily considered before full smart meter deployment is achieved. Everything from asking who will deploy them to which tools will be used in the process is covered.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

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Smart Grid & the Environment, Lean Smart Grids & More: 09/28/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Degrees, Smart Grid Standards & More: 09/21/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 15:00:17 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

D.O.E. Dropping $8.5 Million on Smart Grid Tech
Great news in the Smart Grid world as the U.S. Department of Energy is officially throwing some serious money at the development of new Smart Grid technology. The money will mostly go towards the use of solar power with the Smart Grid, pushing sustainable energy development forward a great deal.

Creating The Smart Grid: Standards are Needed
Many think that the Smart Grid, like the Internet at its conception, will need Smart Grid standards to work properly. What are those standards and how exactly will they work? That’s the question being dissected in this brilliant article.

Green Smart Grid: The Logical Side Effect of a Smart Grid?
With all the talk about the new Smart Grid technology, some experts are wondering if a “Green Grid” is a logical side effect of its creation. With the more efficient operation of the Smart Grid, smarter resource and load control, could a Greener Grid truly be the outcome?

University to Offer Smart Grid Degrees?
In a sign of changes that are taking place, a college in Ohio is now going to officially offer a degree program in Smart Grid Studies. The school currently offers a power systems engineering technology program; this new Smart Grid studies will be a part of it.

Consumers Hold the Key to Smart Grid Growth
Many experts are agreeing on is this: Connecting with the customer is one of the most important ways we can help spur important Smart Grid growth. By educating consumers more efficiently, knowledge of the Smart Grid can take off and truth growth can be experienced.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Degrees, Smart Grid Standards & More: 09/21/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Investments, Smart Grid Dictionary & More: 09/14/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 15:00:10 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

Obama Drops $90 Billion into Clean Energy
In what is being called the most ambitious energy legislation in history, Obama has approved $90 billion in funding into clean energy and Smart Grid investments. This massive act will also effectively triple the number of smart meters in homes and quadruple the number of hybrids in the federal auto fleet.

2^nd Edition of Smart Grid Dictionary Released
The 2^nd edition of the widely released and adopted Smart Grid dictionary has officially been released. While the first edition had a massive list of all North American regulatory agencies, industry associations, and standards organizations, the new 2nd Edition includes European and Asian entities.

U.S. Smart Meter Installations Hits 2 Million?
Two million smart meters have now been installed inside the United States according to the Department of Energy! It will be interesting to see how new legislation approved by Obama will increase these numbers, and how long it will take to do so.

Turkey To Connect to Smart Grid Network
Great news for the global spread of Smart Grid technology as word has it that Turkey will officially tap into the European Smart Grid. It will be interesting to see how much more it will spread in the years to come.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Investments, Smart Grid Dictionary & More: 09/14/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Privacy, Smart Grid Tech Evolution & More : 09/07/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 15:00:18 +0000

Here are some of the most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies you might have missed this past week:

The Smart Grid…It’s for More than Electrons
The intricate and technical distinction between the old electrical grid and the Smart Grid are discussed in this article. This is an information packed post that explains how we need to extend our thinking about the Smart Grid to encompass all aspects of it, and all applications.

Department of Defense Preparing Smart Grid Micro-Grid Technology Demo
The United States Department of Defense believes that today’s electrical grid is at an unacceptably high risk of extended outages. As such, they are deploying new technologies for a Smart Micro Grid that is much more defensible and can operate alone for longer periods of time. This article has more on their beliefs and plans.

What is the Future of Privacy with Smart Grids?
This article asks a very important question that’s on the front of everyone’s mind when it comes to Smart Grid tech: What is the future of privacy? The revolutionary aspects of the Smart Grid are discussed and how privacy concerned may be addressed.

Studies Showing Stimulus Funds and Smart Grid Deployment Huge in Mergers & Acquisitions
Growth is being seen across the utility and energy generation sector when it comes to mergers and acquisitions. New studies are finding that stimulus funds and Smart Grid technology deployments are going to play a significant role in mergers and acquisitions going forward.

Smart Technology & Evolution in a New Energy Economy
Energy is evolving and so too is the method in which it’s sold, stored and delivered. This post is about the turning point smart technologies are at right now, and what the implications will be when things start truly changing.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Privacy, Smart Grid Tech Evolution & More : 09/07/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Benefits, Local Smart Grid Jobs & More: 08/31/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:00:07 +0000

These were the stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies we found most interesting from this past week:

What are Some of the Many Benefits of the Smart Grid?
Whenever the topic comes up, people’s first reaction is to ask what the benefits of Smart Grid technology will be. This article goes into detail some of the best and brightest benefits that will come when widespread adoption of Smart Grid technology takes place.

Could More Local Jobs be a Byproduct of Smart Grid Technology?
The benefits are always discussed in terms of energy conservation and financial savings, but could there be more with Smart Grid tech? Some think that an influx of local jobs might be a direct result of Smart Grid technology starting to increasingly spread.

Customer Engagement: The Key to Smart Grid Success?
Will it be the financial savings or the energy conservation that eventually leads to the overall success of the Smart Grid? Many experts believe that it might actually be customer engagement in the Smart Grid that eventually leads to its success and widespread adoption. Read more in this article.

Can The Smart Grid be Turned into an Information Superhighway?
An interesting question posed in this article: Can the Smart Grid be tweaked and customized to become an information superhighway? Many believe that the technology is perfect for not only transmitting energy, but also great deals of information. This is an interesting read.

GridWeek Announces International Summit & Secretary Locke’s Keynote
Some exciting news as not only the keynote by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke has been officially announced, but the entire International Summit is scheduled. October 18^th, 2010 is the official day, so start marking your calendars!

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Benefits, Local Smart Grid Jobs & More: 08/31/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 08/24/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 23:20:19 +0000

Check out these, our favorite and most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies from this past week:

The Necessity of Smart Grids: Why We Should Care
Ever wondered what all the hype and hoopla surrounding Smart Grid technology is? This article shows exactly why Smart Grids are not only worth the hype, but a necessity. This is a great way to get fresh insight on what is going to be the future of energy consumption and management.

Fortifying the Smart Grid with Micro-grids and Security
Securing the Smart Grid no doubt tops the list of the most major concerns facing Homeland Security and the Department of Energy. This fresh alternative idea to securing the Smart Grid offers up the idea of using multiple micro-grids to minimize the damage that could be caused by any kind of cyber attack.

Gas Meters are Getting Smart Too!
It’s not just electrical meters that are jumping on the Smart Meter/Smart Grid bandwagon. Looks like gas meters are getting a heck of a lot smarter too and predictions are showing the growth could be huge. If predictions hold, smart gas meters could grow from 8.5 million in 2009 to over 36 million in 2016!

Is it Merely Smart Meters that Define the Smart Grid?
An interesting question is posed in this article as to whether or not it’s just smart meters that truly define the Smart Grid and its installation. With all of the possibilities that come from the marriage of IT and telecommunication with energy meters and its technology, its highly likely smart meters will only be part of the equation.

How are Utilities Getting Ready for the Smart Meter Customer Experience?
Smart Meters are coming; that much we know is true. Whether or not local, regional and state utility companies will actually be ready is another question entirely. This article has great data on what changes are being made by utilities and what steps are going to be made to ensure the smart meter customer experience is nothing but positive..

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 08/24/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 08/17/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 14:46:50 +0000

Here are some of our favorite and most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies from this past week:

Solar & the Smart Grid
A great deal of interesting insight and information on how solar power and the Smart Grid might become a perfect marriage of technology and energy conservation. What changes will need to take place and what some of the benefits could be are covered.

Trilliant Named AlwaysOn Winner!
Amazing news as Smart Grid communications provider Trilliant has been named as one of the AlwaysOn Global 250 winners. The award recognizes leadership, innovative approaches and technologies. Plenty more information on this prestigious award is in this great article.

Smart Grid Operations Management Software to Grow 65% over 5 Years
More brilliant news that growth in the Smart Grid market is scheduled to grow by steady and healthy margins over the next 5 years. Looks like predictions are showing that Smart Grid operations management software markets are set at 65% over the next half decade.

Reliability and the Smart Grid
There are a great deal of debates about the reliability of the future Smart Grid. Two schools of thought with two different beliefs but if done right many predict that the new Smart Grid could be far more reliable and steady than the current.

The Data Center Perspective on the Smart Grid Transition
Will the transition to the Smart Grid enable utilities to better manage power distribution and give their customers the ability to control their own consumption and cost? The technology and data center perspective on all of the behind-the-scenes technology is extremely interesting and covered in this article.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 08/17/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 08/10/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 15:04:26 +0000

Check out some of our favorite and most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies from this past week:

More Info on Trilliant Landing $106 Million in Funding & Central Maine Power
Even more in-depth coverage of Trilliant’s exciting news about landing $106M in funding and landing Central Maine Power as a new client. CMP is the state’s largest utility and Trilliant will help provide end-to-end communications mesh networks and a smart meter infrastructure to all of its customers.

How Will The Smart Grid Handle Heat Waves?
Interesting insight into exactly how the new Smart Grid will handle times of extreme energy demands like heat waves that often cripple the country over the summer. To satisfy huge demands, the Smart Grid must truly be “smart” and adjust to the fluctuations.

Local News Coverage of Central Maine Power’s New Smart Grid Project
Broad coverage is one thing, but it’s so great to see local news coverage of Central Maine Power’s new Trilliant-run Smart Grid project. Included in the short piece is the time span it will take to complete and the fact that once done it will create about 2,000 jobs!

Protecting Your Smart Grid
Cyber security is the topic in this great article as to how features will enable protection of the Smart Grid. The article is written by two experts in security and IT compliance so it covers where current standards are, as well as how they will be applied in the near future.

10 Things I’ve Learned About the Smart Grid
10 awesome facts and insights about Smart Grid and all of its technologies from a writer on GreenBiz.com. This article is a great dip into the world of Smart Grid technology and offers some great information.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 08/10/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 08/03/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 14:24:31 +0000

Here were some of the stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies we found most interesting and enlightening this week. Check out what you might have missed:

Trilliant Wins One Against Friis Equation
Trilliant’s use of 2.4 GHz for their RF mesh NAN has always set them apart. With their recent win at Central Main Power, it’s showing many people that the Friis Equation that has traditionally proved that communications will travel further at 900 Mhz (what other companies use) than 2.4 GHz, is not all encompassing and that real-world experience matters much more.

Consumer Impressions of the Smart Grid
Here is a brilliant study that shines a great deal of light on what consumers all around the world actually thinks about the Smart Grid. The survey asked people’s impressions on spending money to make improvements to today’s energy infrastructure and came back with exciting percentages on the positive side.

New York To Study Smart Grid Regulatory Policies
The New York State Public Service Commission has reportedly initiated a study as to what regulatory policies will best promote the development of the Smart Grid. Seeing the great potential, their Chairman believes that first studying the policies and regulations needed, will help make sure all bases are covered before its implementation.

Trends for Smart Grid Adoption
A new report has been issued as to what some of the trends of Smart Grid adoption are and what they could be. The report goes into some detail about how companies envision business opportunities in the Smart Grid and goes on to cover a pretty broad range of potential applications.

Smart Grid Spending Could Reach $46 Billion By 2015
More information here about how some new studies are reporting that spending on the Smart Grid and smart meter technology could reach a massive $46 billion dollars by the year 2015. If true, this would be a huge leap in only 5 years.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 08/03/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 07/20/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 17:39:19 +0000

Check out some of our favorite stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies this week. Here’s what you might have missed below:

Smart Grid Projects in 90% of U.S. States?
Studies are in and showing some seriously impressive and surprising numbers concerning Smart Grid projects across the country. New numbers show over 135 projects in 44 states and two territories. Wow.

Does The Smart Grid Need to be Smarter?
An extremely important question being asked about the Smart Grid…does it need to be smarter? A new study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy is saying that for maximum potential, utilities will have to go beyond Smart Meter technology and implement a great deal of energy-use feedback tools.

Gauging the Pros and Cons of Smart Meters
With any grand plan to save energy and improve something at the same time, there are going to be pros and cons. That’s exactly what this article is discussing as the good and the bad of smart meter technology is being analyzed.

Trilliant Raises $106 Million of Capital
Amazing news as Trilliant has officially raised $106 million from a global syndicate of industry and financial leaders. The funds will be used to enhance energy efficiency, utility operations and renewable resources integration with the Smart Grid. Great news from this press release.

Department of Energy Launches Smart Grid Web Portal
In an attempt to educate as many people as possible about Smart Grid technologies, the U.S. Department of Energy has started a new Smart Grid Information Clearinghouse Website. It’s a long name for a web portal that is trying to provide information on technology, standards, rules, use cases, training and best practices for Smart Grid tech.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 07/20/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 07/13/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 17:26:42 +0000

Check out some of our favorite stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies this week. Here’s what you might have missed below:

Can We Attract the Smart Grid to Wind Power?
Here’s an awesome video that asks the important question as to whether or not we can attract the future Smart Grid to developing wind power technology. The marriage of the two might do a great deal for energy conservation and reduced energy costs.

Just How Smart IS the Smart Grid?
Important questions being asked as many experts want to know just how smart the Smart Grid actually is. What kind of technologies might it employ and just how much information will be exchanged throughout the system? Great read about important technologies.

Why Overhyping is Better Than No-Hyping for the Smart Grid
Many believe that even though the Smart Grid is currently being hyped, or possibly over-hyped, it is much better than no hype at all. The fact remains, the more attention that is drawn to it, the more likely great technologies can and will develop.

How The Smart Grid Will Actually Work
Do you ever wonder how stuff works? This article aims to show you exactly how, once finished, the Smart Grid will actually work. From out with the old to all of the green science that will go into it, this is a fascinating update on the fledgling technology.

Smart Grid Prediction: Transmission Infrastructure Investments Could Top $600 Billion in Decade
Talk about giant sums of money! Predictions are in that over the next 10 years, investments in the high-voltage electricity transmissions industry could top $600 billion dollars. The evidence of thousands of miles of new transmission lines being built has lead to the estimates being this high.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 07/13/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 07/06/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 19:55:45 +0000

These were some of our favorite and most interesting stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies this week. Check out what you might have missed below:

Smart Grid Security: Pressure On Utility IT Systems
Great article about how when it comes to Smart Grid security, the pressure is being turned up on utility IT systems. Many experts believe that all of the different IT systems and methods need to be shored up and common ground found.

Utilities to Get Smarter about Selling Smart Grid
While the Smart Grid has been the realm of talk, it’s almost here and it’s getting a lot more real. Consumers have always been a bit behind on understanding its benefits to them, however, and now is the time utilities sell it better.

Smart Grid Security To Become Multi-Billion Dollar Industry
What good is the Smart Grid if it’s left completely vulnerable? That question is leading to many industry analysts to believe that Smart Grid security will eventually become a multi-billion dollar industry over the next decade.

Energy Harvesting & the Smart Grid
A very in-depth and information packed article with exactly how energy will be harvested once the Smart Grid is up and fully operational in our country. It’s filled with graphics and information on a forum that will have even more information.

Smart Grid Technology Can Address Climate Change
While a few states like California have been introducing revolutionary energy policies to save money and emissions, could the Smart Grid do even more? If all goes as planned, Smart Grid technology might do more to address climate change than any policy to date.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 07/06/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 06/29/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:02:12 +0000

Hopefully you didn’t miss any of these great stories on Smart Grid and smart meter technologies this week. If you did, check out what you missed out on below:

Smart Grid Architecture
This is a fantastic piece on how efficient Smart Grid architecture can reduce the cost of energy for consumers as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Talk about ‘saving’ two birds with one stone.

U.S. DOE Searches for Smart Grid Consensus
Looks like the Department of Energy is bringing in some of those most directly involved with the building of the Smart Grid to try to come up with a consensus on what technology is most needed. We’ll see how it turns out.

What Will Come Next for the Smart Grid?
An excellent question is raised as to what exactly will come next for the Smart Grid as U.S. utilities have taken federal stimulus money and began building two-way metering infrastructure. What is next?

Smart Policies for a 21^st Century Smart Grid
With Smart Grid technology coming to the forefront, are smarter Smart Grid policies needed? This article brings up the question as to how policies might need reshaping as new technologies bring in new problems and opportunities.

Getting to the Promise of the Smart Grid
Some great personal commentary on the need to start delivering on the promise of the Smart Grid after 100 years of being passive consumers to the industry. What needs to happen to get to that promise?

The Second Wave of the Smart Grid
We know the Smart Grid is bringing about Smart Meter technology, but what will be the second wave of the promise of Smart Grid technology? This article looks into what could be the next wave.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 06/29/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 06/15/2010

Trilliant Incorporated — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:37:53 +0000

Miss out on these interesting stories? Here’s your chance to get caught up:

Smart Grid to Maximize Economic & Environmental Benefits
Wondering exactly how the Smart Grid could maximize the benefits, both economic and environmental, in a place like California? Find out.

Smart Appliances to Help Consumers Get Smart About Energy Costs
Learn about the newest generation of energy cost reducing Smart appliances for consumers.

Will Smart Grids Change the Business Landscape for Electric Utilities?
New changes and developments in Smart Grid and smart meter technology could shake up a wide variety of industries and companies.

Will Smart Meters make Meter Readers Obsolete?
Could the need for an entire career field be completely eliminated with the upcoming wave of Smart Meters?

Many Residents Still Skeptical of Smart Grid
Smart Grid and its many touted benefits aren’t being readily adopted by everyone. Find out why some residents are still skeptical.

Be sure to check back next Tuesday for the latest Smart Grid Industry News Roundup.

Related content:

Smart Grid Industry News Roundup: 06/15/2010 was posted at Trilliant. | http://www.trilliantinc.com