Battelle Working with Nation’s Leading Utilities on Development and Deployment of Smart Grid Technology

Battelle is currently working with the nation’s leading electric utilities and power systems suppliers to demonstrate the increased efficiency and reliability of electric power distribution through its proprietary smart grid technology. Two projects currently underway in particular are aimed at demonstrating the benefits and reliability of smart grid technology to the public.

Battelle and AEP, along with General Electric and other companies, will install advanced electricity meters at 110,000 homes in the greater Columbus area which will allow for real-time consumer management of power consumption.  The project is not only expected to cut energy consumption and emissions but also to create 500 jobs over the next five years.

In the Pacific Northwest, Battelle is leading a group of utilities in a $178 million project that will test new combinations of devices, software and advanced analytical tools to enhance the existing power grid’s performance as it delivers electricity to 60,000 metered customers in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming.  The project is expected to create 1,500 jobs.

“These initiatives are designed to demonstrate the many benefits of smart grid technology,” says Don McConnell, president of Battelle Energy Technology.  “It [smart grid technology] will increase the reliability of service, decrease downtime for consumers and allow customers to gain better control of their monthly electric bills.”

For more, see the release from Battelle