Introduction to Act
There are a number of ways that you can take action to support smart microgrids and smartgrid projects. Here are a few ways:
- Congress
Senators John Kerry and Joe Lieberman finally released the latest version of the climate bill, the American Power Act on May 13. Swift action on this climate bill is needed; however, competing policy priorities may delay a vote. We can’t let this happen. The Senate needs to pass climate legislation now and include provisions for modernizing electricity distribution systems.
Clean, distributed generation and smart microgrids have not yet been a part of the climate bill discussion, but their inclusion is critical if we are to integrate significant levels of renewable energy without compromising reliability. Microgrids create local jobs, promote energy independence, reduce polluting carbon emissions, and help us transition to an efficient, clean energy economy — making them the best approach for achieving our nation’s energy and environmental goals.
- Real-Time IL
Real-time electricity pricing is a legally required option for electricity consumers in Illinois by Public Act 094-0977. Real-time pricing gives consumers information about the actual cost of electricity at any given time. Electricity prices change from hour to hour, but most consumers are forced to pay the same price no matter when they use electricity. Real-time pricing lets consumers adjust their electricity usage accordingly; for example, scheduling usage during periods of low demand to pay cheaper rates.
Real-time electricity pricing requires the installation of an electricity smart meter that can send and receive information about electricity costs and give consumers more information about their own usage. ComEd and Ameren have a number of ways that this information can be received, including online, via e-mail, text message, or telephone. By providing accurate information about electricity rates – as determined by overall demand – real-time pricing allows consumers to use that information to make decisions about electricity use.
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