White House Invests in Smart Grid

Posted by kbanks on Sep 22, 2011 in Sustainability | Comments Off

We read in a recent issue of Electrical Contractor magazine that the White House has launched a major effort to improve our modernized energy transmission system, or “smart grid.” In June, the Obama administration announced new initiatives designed to accelerate modernization, bolster innovation and support the growth of clean energy.

One of the highlights is $250 million in loans for smart grid technology deployment in rural areas. The loans are part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utility Service, which is focused on upgrading the electrical grid in rural America.

Other initiatives include the launch of Grid 21, which will help consumers get better access to their own energy usage information. The White House will also form a Renewable Energy Rapid Response Team to improve federal coordination and ensure timely review of proposed renewable-energy projects and transmission lines.

From our point of view, it could take time before we see real, measurable results from these investments in America’s smart grid. Do you think these initiatives are the best use of resources to meet our country’s energy goals?