B_0412_News3

Grid Modernization Demonstrates Energy Savings

March 20, 2012

Pacific Gas & Electric, a provider of natural gas and electricity in northern California, has reduced energy consumption up to 20% due to its power grid optimization programs, according to the GridWise Alliance.

The GridWise Alliance, an advocate for the optimization of the U.S. electric system, along with Quanta Technology, co-wrote a report detailing the current state of the power grid and assessing the benefits of a modernized system. It provides federal and state regulators with concrete examples of the benefits of modernization projects as they contemplate their own initiatives.

The report collected data from interviews with GridWise Alliance members, state regulators, and several utilities, as well as analyzed recent smart grid reports. The electric industry is moving forward with vital grid modernization programs, notes James W. Morozzi, president and CEO of GridWise Alliance.

“Our economy and quality of life depend on a robust, optimized, and modernized electric grid,” says Morozzi. “This is an important time as decision makers look for data from completed projects to ensure that their upcoming initiatives are deployed efficiently and effectively.”

Although much of the report is based on expected benefits, detailed case studies and quantitative data illustrate improvements to electric reliability, energy savings, and customer engagement.

“It is necessary to recognize that the main beneficiaries of grid modernization are energy customers and society as a whole. As such, we will need to build an intelligent, flexible, and sustainable grid that is both customer-centric and capable of balancing societal values, customer needs, and system operation contraints,” the report reads. “In order to realize this vision and value of a modernized electric grid, all stakeholders must seek common agreement.”

Continued smart grid deployment will require regulatory support from a policy and financial perspective, the report states. GridWise Alliance aims to facilitate collaboration among policymakers, utilities, and customers.

“Optimizing our energy resources, energy delivery, and energy consumption is made possible by modernizing the United States’ electric grid,” the report notes.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...