Smart grids that allow users to get real-time pricing for the electricity they buy is gaining some federal support:
Both the House and Senate versions of the pending energy bill encourage the use of smart grid technology, but don’t mandate it. Both call for an updated study of the subject. More significantly, the House bill authorizes a Smart Grid matching grant, which could go to either the utilities or the customers, with total funding of $2.25 billion through 2012. That’s at least a start towards the $14 to $26 billion the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission estimates it would cost to install the technology nationwide.
Not surprisingly, most of the early adopters are west coast utilities, who labor under growing demand, shrinking supply and a series of greenhouse emissions mandates. But a couple of east coast companies are looking at the smart grid idea, too, including Baltimore Gas & Electric and PEPCO.
What are the chances for a smart grid test in Virginia? There are some legislative hurdles, plus plain, old-fashioned inertia:
…for smart grid technology to succeed, states must lift regulatory barriers to allow variable rates, and more utilities must take the plunge.”
In other words, don’t hold your breath waiting for the General Assembly or Virginia Power to make the leap.
