AMR and DR Worlds Converge

摘要

The electric utility industry is rapidly modernizing the electric grid through deployment of advanced systems. As utilities are deploying smart meters, however, they are facing a key issue: Should they integrate ancillary secondary programs to the metering part of a smart grid deployment or operate them on separate platforms? The key approach is on new smart grid technologies, information technology (IT)/data systems and two-way communications platforms. Utilities are assessing the business case, cost/benefits, software and technologies for advanced metering, distribution control systems and demand response (DR). For the most part, emerging smart grid programs deploy advanced networks, new electronic metering and IT technologies. Some are deployed in phases to validate the technology while others have full roll-out programs.