Employing Smart IT Seen Reducing Energy Use, Industry Study Says

An analysis by the industry trade research arm Electric Power Research Institute shows how IT smarts can help reduce electricity use.

In a web posting this week, the institute contends a smart grid could potentially reduce annual U.S. energy consumption by 56 to 203 billion kWh in 2030, corresponding to a 1.2% to 4.3% reduction in projected retail electricity sales in 2030.

In addition, according to the institute, a smart grid can provide the catalyst for greater integration of renewable generation resources and greater deployment of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The combined deployment of seven applications enabled by a smart grid could reduce CO2 emissions by an estimated 60 to 211 million metric tons in 2030.

A smart grid is one that incorporates information and communications technology into every aspect of electricity generation, delivery and consumption in order to: minimize environmental impact; enhance markets; improve service; reduce costs and improve efficiency.

(Click on image to enlarge)

The above diagram, from the institute, depicts the interaction between consumer devices with communication capabilities, energy providers and transmission and distribution functions enabled by smart-grid network operations.