Worcester Smart Grid Pilot Gets DPU Approval
National Grid's smart grid pilot program for Worcester has gotten the go-ahead from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities.
According to National Grid, smart grid meters will be available for 15,000 Worcester customers within a year.
The smart grid program aims to reduce energy consumption during peak usage times by allowing customers to track their consumption on smart meters in real time and offer them cheaper electricity during off-peak hours. Customers will be able to choose their level of involvement, receiving information via online applications and smart phone apps.
The program marks the first of its kind for National Grid because it's being developed with input from city officials and community members. It culminated last September in the Green to Growth Summit that was co-hosted by National Grid and the City of Worcester. During the event, more than 300 members of the community, key groups and individuals provided help that led to an official proposal.
The program is estimated to cost about $44 million and final technology and vendors selections are underway.
Key features of the program include new technologies that allow for the quicker identification of problems and restoration during outages.
Early installation of about 5,000 meters is nearly complete, helping National Grid obtain energy data, test communications systems and adjust the equipment before full deployment.
The company also will be testing full integration of renewable resources, electric vehicle charging stations and connecting energy storage to existing renewable projects across the city.
The pilot program includes a "Sustainability Hub" created by National Grid with the help of local colleges and universities that provides an interactive location where customers can learn more about the pilot. More information is available via Facebook and from the Twitter @Green2Growth.
Image credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
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