At the GridWeek 2009 Conference, U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu said that implementing a smart grid and modernizing America's electrical system are imperative pieces to President Obama's energy vision.
A stronger, more efficient electrical system will allow for more growth in renewable energy sources, as well as encourage and empower consumers to reduce their energy use.
Secretary Chu highlighted five areas for enabling grid modernization, these included: renewable energy integration, system transparency, load management, energy storage, and cyber and physical security.
Mr. Chu also outlined several programs being funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which are advancing the development of a smart grid. The government has provided $35-$40 million to develop training program models for the electric grid, with a particular focus on achieving a national smart grid. The Department of Energy has also given $60-$65 million to projects which perform workforce training programs for utility workers and electrical equipment manufacturers to help set up and maintain smart grid technologies.
As Secretary Chu explains, "America cannot build a 21st Century energy economy with a mid-20th Century electricity system."
Read the full story at Windustry: Department of Energy Advances Smart Grid Vision
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Nathanael Baker is the Managing Editor of EnergyBoom. He has researched and reported on the issues of renewable energy, sustainability, and climate change for over two years. He has provided research to the New York Times and The Economist, as well as being published on different media outlets including, The Energy Collective.
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