An Electric Revolution, Chapter One: A 1776 of Energy
Many technologies for an intelligent grid are already commercially available. Recognizing the profound benefits to the economy and environment, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Smart Grid Investment Grant program awarded $4.3 billion to 100 projects during 2009, most of which regrettably emphasize only semi-intelligent electric meters. Alas, fewer than 20 of the projects are designed to give consumers the real tools and information needed to make informed choices. More than 90 percent of the money is simply going to shovel ready projects, using meters with limited features that retain a utility’s control of electricity use and price data. The unfortunate result is that these less-sophisticated devices — which in some cases are leading to mysterious overcharges — are not only giving smart meters a bad reputation among consumers, but also raising suspicions about utility motives and predatory practices.
The barriers to reform are the product of an industry that understandably guards its vested interests and a public that, lacking clearly articulated alternatives, does not yet realize anything is wrong. A Harris Interactive poll conducted in January 2010 found that roughly two-thirds of Americans had never even heard of a “smart grid” or “smart meters.” While the same number agreed that they would cut their energy use if they were capable of tracking it, 42 percent were simply unable to either agree or disagree with the statement: “The electricity system is fine the way it is and a smart grid is not necessary.”
However, as citizens, businesses, media and civic leaders increasingly recognize and express frustration with the system’s faults and the huge price it is extracting from every citizen, officials at both the state and federal levels cannot turn a deaf ear. They must either encourage or force utilities to adapt. Voters’ demands for reform can thus produce a reinvented electricity system that properly serves the country and its people.
