PG&E Proposes Six Smart Grid Pilot Projects

PG&E's proposed smart grid projects would make the utility's electric distribution system more reliable and flexible.

submitted by Marlene Vogelsang

pgecurrents.com - by Jonathan Marshall - November 22, 2011

PG&E yesterday (Nov. 21) asked the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for the right to begin work on six new smart grid pilot projects that hold great promise for benefiting customers and meeting California’s energy policy goals.

The projects involve adding line sensors and controls to make the utility’s electric distribution system more reliable and flexible; new voltage and grid control systems to lower customer energy costs and help integrate customer-owned solar generation into the distribution system; and more local electricity demand forecasting to improve efficiency.

The projects also would enhance PG&E’s capabilities for testing and evaluating new technology, and help customers understand how they can take advantage of a smarter grid to better manage their energy use and save money.

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